Complete post # 1 from Ranger-Forums.com -
When my 2000 3.0 flex fuel engine bit the dust I discovered that replacement engines were hard to find. After researching the topic on these forums I decided to try using a Taurus 3.0. I purchased a 2002 Taurus 3.0 flex fuel engine, a head gasket set, an oil pan gasket, and a water pump gasket. The head gaskets are different between the two engines and must be replaced. I found it easier to pull my water pump and clutch fan as a unit and mount it to the Taurus timing chain cover after the engine was installed. I had to swap the oil pump pick up tube and oil pan; swap exhaust manifolds, engine mounts, flex plate, intake manifold, and the oil pressure sending unit. I left the Taurus crankshaft position sensor installed in the block and used it. Everything bolted up with no surprises and I’m back to driving my truck again.