2.3L ('02-'11) 2.3L engine swap and transmission compatibility

[RangerFord02]

Hello Rangers,

Hey...my son has a 2002 RWD Ranger that he just blew up the 2.3L engine in (hole blew out the side of the block). Having a hellova time finding a new (used) engine for it. I think I found one now, but I have a couple of questions. The truck the donor engine (another 2.3L) is coming out of is a 2011 (he says 2012, but what I'm finding is that the 2.3L was changed to a 2.2L in 2012.?). The wiring harness in the donor vehicle has 3 PCM modules at the firewall and ours has one, large one. Here are my 2 questions:
- Even though the wiring harness is different at the firewall connection, will the other end(s) be the same so that my 2002 harness will 'plug-n-play' with the 2011 engine? I'm thinking 'yes', because the 'Prefix' I had to choose to post this is "2.3L ('02-'11)".?
- I believe my truck has the 5R44E transmission (2001-2009.?)...will that bolt up to the 2011 engine (since they're both 2.3L)?

Thanks in advance!
Jason

 

[pjtoledo]

does the new engine have variable cam timing? if so that will be an issue. I don't think they have one.
the 2002 has flappers in the intake and the PCM will want to see the signal.
it also has a different thermostat outlet, that will need to be kept too.
do all the hoses while the engine is out, try to keep the exhaust manifold attached.
rear crank seal while it's accessible.

DO NOT LOOSEN THE HARMONIC BALANCER BOLT, THAT WILL CHANGE ENGINE TIMING. SAME WITH THE CAM BOLTS.

when I swapped my 2005 for a 2002 all the external stuff swapped over.

 

[RangerFord02]

Great info...thank you very much! I don't believe the new engine has VVT. I will try to keep as much as I can from the engine/engine bay, yes. And I won't touch the H.B. bolt or cam bolts.
Jason