1987 ford ranger, $6,000 and a toolbox.

[Zane]

Alrighty boys and girls and formally and such,

(Thowing this out there incase its getting missed, 4000 for ANY engine new or existing that includes all parts to run. So not just the 2.9 that's in it. I'm looking for options not to use the 2.9 that's in it and running even though I'm sure I can get 14s out of the 2.9 with 4k just looking for ideas I haven't thought of)

I have a 1987 ford ranger single cab shortbed 4x4 manual with a 2.9l (that has a blown head gasket on the left otherwise fine no engine contamination) all original I'm the third owner in its 214000 miles. Now that introductions are over I have a question for you all. I have 6,000 doll hairs for this bad girl and a full wet nitrous kit heater and all the works. Now I want to make her scream for me. keeping in mind I'm taking off 2000 for drivetrain tuneup trans swap and 9in rear, what would you do with for close to 13-14 second 1/4 times before nitrous with the remaining 4,000. All options are open but remember I am (1) no welder (2) not getting rid of 4x4 (3) and a grown man with a family and a dependable full time job that allows me a hobby such as this.

Final gearing 4.88 front and rear
Trans m50d-r1or r1hd havent figured that out yet

 

[adsm08]

If you have 2k to put into a tune up and transmission I'd look at adding a pair of cylinders.

 

[Zane]

4k is my budget for the "cylinders" however many they may be

 

[rusty ol ranger]

4k is my budget for the "cylinders" however many they may be

Id be looking for a 351W....

 

[Ranger850]

6,000, you should be able to do the EB swap, v6 swap or v8 swap and have change left over.

 

[adsm08]

4k is my budget for the "cylinders" however many they may be

Right, but you said you had budgeted 2K of your 6 for tuning up the existing engine and swapping in a sturdier transmission.

When I swapped from an FM145/1350 to an M5OD/1354 I had about $300 in the whole thing. I replaced the clutch, flywheel, starter and both drive shafts in that swap.

I'm saying that instead of sinking any money into the 2.9 or buying a trans that will only bolt to a Cologne family engine, roll that money back into the total and grab a V8 and trans to put in.

 

[91stranger]

I say eco boost that sum bitch and she will scream like no other. Plus you would get a more reliable and gas friendly vehicle compared to any v8 swap or trying to make that poor 2.9 go down the track. I think you would save more money going with the EB setup than trying to make a 2.9 a 10 second truck which would be pretty hard considering you want to keep 4wd. good luck and post some pics.

 

[adsm08]

I say eco boost that sum bitch and she will scream like no other. Plus you would get a more reliable and gas friendly vehicle compared to any v8 swap or trying to make that poor 2.9 go down the track. I think you would save more money going with the EB setup than trying to make a 2.9 a 10 second truck which would be pretty hard considering you want to keep 4wd. good luck and post some pics.

Usually by the time we are talking about nitrous concerns of fuel economy are out the window because it won't be street legal anymore in most of the country.

 

[Zane]

Ah got what your saying. I've had no luck finding a used m5r1 and 1354 near me or flebay so I decided screw it and go new on the trans and transfer. Plus I get a warranty so that's an added plus. Thre rest of the 800 that's leftover I'd overhaul the fuel system, brakes, and fix minor body blemishes

 

[Zane]

Usually by the time we are talking about nitrous concerns of fuel economy are out the window because it won't be street legal anymore in most of the country.

Definitely not intended for daily driver. More of a fun take to the track or desert when I visit that side of the country

 

[rusty ol ranger]

......so youre planning on a 13 second 2.9?


I love the 2.9....but thats asking alot. Theres no way youre gonna be able to put enough juice to it (and have it stayed glued togther) to get what youre wanting.

A 351W with a big carb, big cam, etc etc with a built C4 (or stock C6) should put you in the neighborhood.

 

[Shran]

Are you doing any of the work here or are you sending it off to a shop once? 6k is not going to last long at $100/hour

 

[Bird76Mojo]

GOOD GOD I want to see someone throw a 200 shot in to a 2.9!! With no hood on it and a Go-Pro mounted on the roof!! Please do it!

 

[rusty ol ranger]

GOOD GOD I want to see someone throw a 200 shot in to a 2.9!! With no hood on it and a Go-Pro mounted on the roof!! Please do it!

I hope it holds togther just to spite your ass and say "haha MF'er" lmao

 

[Bird76Mojo]

A 2.9 with a 200 shot stands zero chance. lol

PLEASE DO IT!! DO EET NOW!!