4.0 questions

[Brownie Mobile]

I have tried searching so if this information is somewhere, i couldn't find it. When im out of boot camp im considering a 4.0 swap so ive got a few questions. Would it be possible to find a 4.0 SOHC model with a manual tranny and a manual t case? Any downfalls to the 4.0s? Personal oppinions on the 4.0? Will a 4.0 SOHC even bolt into my 2.8 B2? it seems like on the threads they suggested OHV 4.0s, thanks.

 

[shane96ranger]

The 4.0 OHV is less prone to issues. The SOHC has more hp, but the timing chain and guide/cassette issues deter a lot of people from wanting one. I would use an OHV any day over a SOHC.

Sent from a Commodore 64 using a 300 baud modem

 

[6.2]

I love my SOHC. I'd never go to an OHV. They fixed the timing chain problems in 2001 didn't they?

 

[509lifted]

6.2 i beleive i recently read that it got fixed in 04 or 05 but im not 100% sure. so don't quote me on that.

 

[6.2]

All I know is my 06 is fine lol.

 

[theAntihero]

I really like the OHV over the SOHC in fact i think i like the 2.8 over the SOHC.

Having driven both the SOHC and the OHV in basically the same vehicle with the same specs, both were 4x4 4 door auto explorers, i can say that the SOHC seems gutless unless you beat it. There seems to be literally no power underneath 3000rpm, it sort of reminds me of driving my dads old BII power wise. It also gets far less gas mileage(my explorer got 22-23 while the sohc got 14-19 driving pretty much the same type of miles).

 

[Twister]

Take into account the SOHC is big, you might have figment issues, but the OHV is smaller. Another big thing to take into account is the fuel system. Coming from a 2.8, you are going to have to rework the fuel system. personally I would go with a OHV. You might also consider a 302 swap, might be a bit more work but might be worth it.

Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk 2

 

[shane96ranger]

You might also consider a 302 swap

I likey this idea.

 

[RangerSVT]

What I would do if I were you, is do one of two swaps, the 4.0 ohv, or the 5.0. I say the ohv cause of size, price, and reliability. The sohc are reliable, but only after 2005, which means finding one will be pricy. The ohv, I'd get any after 95, as they had better head design. If you go 5.0, get a 96-97 ex 5.0 with the electronics. It may sound like a lot of work, but its only 5 wires to get the motor running, and its all from one plug. Makes things nice and neat...

SVT

 

[Mac]

I had a '05' 4.0 SOHC ext cab 4x4 and got the same mileage as my 3.0L same body 4x2, same effective gear ratio. That was around 22 mpg on the interstate driving the same way and route. Cold weather and snow really do knock it down.
Dave

 

[Brownie Mobile]

Thanks for all the feeback guys, i originally wanted to do the 302 swap but it looked harder and the horsepower gain over a 4.0 sohc isnt really that much. Im curious for both what are some tranny options, i know the 5.0 explorers were only autos and i really want a manual.

 

[Psychopete]

really missing the bigger picture, throw on some good heads and a 5.0 will put the sohc to shame. 5.0 is easy to install and it came OBD-I. they are dead reliable engines. the huge aftermarket by itself is enough to make a reasonable decision. using explorer stuff isn't going to make it any easier except for the FEAD (which is manageable), and have fun if you end up with GT40P heads.

 

[shane96ranger]

really missing the bigger picture, throw on some good heads and a 5.0 will put the sohc to shame. 5.0 is easy to install and it came OBD-I. they are dead reliable engines. the huge aftermarket by itself is enough to make a reasonable decision. using explorer stuff isn't going to make it any easier except for the FEAD (which is manageable), and have fun if you end up with GT40P heads.

Wise man speakum truth.

The 302 is much cheaper to upgrade or repair.... and you won't find chunks of timing chain guide in your oil pan.

 

[Mac]

Thanks for all the feeback guys, i originally wanted to do the 302 swap but it looked harder and the horsepower gain over a 4.0 sohc isnt really that much. Im curious for both what are some tranny options, i know the 5.0 explorers were only autos and i really want a manual.

Don't worry about what trans came behind the Explorer, same basic motor as any Mustang or Crown Vic. Usually a lot less hard driven miles on an Explorer plus several other items. Don't look at them HP rating either, down because of cam and the computer.
Dqve

 

[shane96ranger]

Don't worry about what trans came behind the Explorer, same basic motor as any Mustang or Crown Vic. Usually a lot less hard driven miles on an Explorer plus several other items. Don't look at them HP rating either, down because of cam and the computer.
Dqve

Plus if you want a manual, you can use an M5OD-R2 out of an F150.