5.0 into an 88 xlt, how hard is it? Options

5.0 into an 88 xlt, how hard is it? Options

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Switch to: Linear+ smcgill Jul 13 2007, 12:36 AM Post #1


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Ok so i am on my third 2.9 and its not doing it for me. it doesn't have the power and it is just giving me problems. so i want to know how hard is it to put a 5.0 into my 1988 ranger xlt regular cab? What all modifications will need to be done? What parts will i need? and how much will it cost me? so if someone could let me know what i am getting into i would apriciate it.



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projectnitemare Jul 13 2007, 08:49 PM Post #2


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Fast, cheap and reliable. Pick two of the three. Cost all depends on what parts you use and how shop. I've seen it done for under $1000 and I have seen them done for over $10K. If you can find a beat up good engine F-150, you have most of the parts right there. Toss the t-case and find an NP 205 or 208, get some driveshafts made and thats about it. You will have to do all the wiring and you can make engine mounts from the 2.9L lowers and some .25in steel plate. You will need a different radiator, filter relocator, rear or dual sump oil pan and a good bit of time. A reliable engine swap is rather involved. How are you killing the 2.9 all the time? You might end up doing the same thing with 302s as well. Oh yeah, you need to check with your local emissions first. It would suck to do all that work to not be able to drive it on the street.

Matt



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85rangerv-8 Jul 13 2007, 09:25 PM Post #3


This place is addicting!


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ive been reading his posts and asking nitemare questions for for a while now and this is the only time i would ever think of going aganst him..lol.........fast.....cheap..........reliable do not go together in any set-up.iam not trying to disscourage you but dont start this unless your ready to finish it!its like a drug.............it just starts with a little and then it consumes you...........(mad laugh)............anybody got a set of dana 60's for sale?lol............do your homework and set a budget.

This post has been edited by 85rangerv-8: Jul 13 2007, 09:27 PM



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smcgill Jul 14 2007, 11:20 PM Post #4


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What can i say the 2.9 has a deff lack of power and when i am out playing around i don't use 4 hi because it just doesn't have enough power so i run 4 lo alot and have a heavy foot when i get into it.



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PaukertRacing Jul 14 2007, 11:45 PM Post #5


I like this place......


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QUOTE(85rangerv-8 @ Jul 13 2007, 09:25 PM)

ive been reading his posts and asking nitemare questions for for a while now and this is the only time i would ever think of going aganst him..lol.........fast.....cheap..........reliable do not go together in any set-up.iam not trying to disscourage you but dont start this unless your ready to finish it!its like a drug.............it just starts with a little and then it consumes you...........(mad laugh)............anybody got a set of dana 60's for sale?lol............do your homework and set a budget.



haha. That's why he said pick TWO of the three. Not all of them! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/good.gif)



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Staggering_Genius Jul 30 2007, 11:31 AM Post #6


I like this place......


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Fast, cheap, reliable... Usually with women you only get two of those options too...



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wade Jul 31 2007, 01:37 AM Post #7


Checking it out.....


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Find a recently wrecked 5.0L Exploder that still runs and is in good mechanical condition. It may not be as performance enhanced as the GT, or Cobra engine, but it will be the quickest way to get a transferable 5.0L into your Ranger. Even the cheesy exhaust manifolds or stock headers should fit. They're not the best performance parts but they'll fit.
Here's what you'll need:
Try to get as much of it from the donor 'sploder as possible even if you're going to end up replacing it. Its a part to show the Ford Parts counter or a core at Auto Zone.

*Complete Engine (should have a dual sump oil pan on it.) (maybe the tranny - depends upon what you want.)
*Sensors & Actuators
*Computer
*Main wiring harness (Don't discard the old Ranger harness. It has lotsa' good color-coded wire in case you have to do some splicing. And, remember, solder and heat-shrink, NOT crimp connectors)
*If you think you'll need any of the other electrical wiring or harnesses - get it now.
*Ignition E-Coil
*You might scarf the high pressure supply fuel line/filter & return fuel line
*High pressure fuel pump
*O2 sensor(s) mounted in the exhaust
*Engine mounts: Use the 4.0L V6 mounts if your gonna make adapter plates. Don't use the hydraulic 4-cyl mounts as they are not strong enough. The mid-80's convertible 5.0L Mustang mounts work well also and are actually fairly easy to install.
* Radiator: Search and read, there are options
*Oil Filter Relocation: Search and read. There are options. (cheap & NOT cheap)
*Don't forget to modify the heater plenum for R-side valve cover clearance.
The only thing else you may have to really customize is the exhaust system. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/icon_welder.gif)
Like Staples says, "That was easy." (IMG:style_emoticons/default/icon_twisted.gif)

READ - READ - READ !!!
Now, someone else may have other tips to add to this.

This post has been edited by wade: Jul 31 2007, 02:14 AM