5.0 swap is a bit out of my league, looking for pointers.

[Xanth17]

So I just bought a nice little 1996 Ranger that I thought was in good condition..... Needless to say I was duped and the head gaskets blew an hour after buying it. The kid says I was high revving it going 50 in 5th gear but I've got a feeling the "brand new radiator" was to blame. Anywho, I'm thinking of throwing the 5.0l (probably the 302 since I've heard it's pretty much plug and play) but I've never done an engine swap before so this is all new to me. I know I need a new computer, engine, wiring harness, and trans (trying to find a 2000 explorer at a junkyard with engine/trans combo), but are there any other major modifications that I should be researching how to do? This is also my first truck, I've been working pretty much exclusively on a Honda Civic and I can tell just looking at it that it's a different ball game. Any help would be appreciated, thanks guys.

 

[Junglejoe]

Well its not plug and play. 2wd or 4wd? You going carbed or efi? Will this be your first engine swap?

 

[CUracing]

I'm not saying you can't do it because I don't know your mechanical ability but you might consider fixing current motor or sell as is and cut your losses. V8 swaps aren't rocket science but ain't really a good place to start for beginners. Good news is I have a complete 98 mountaineer 5.0 minus the rear end in Missouri I would sell you with title for $600 if you decide to jump in the project. I'll load it on your trailer

 

[franklin2]

Here are some "kits" to get you started.

https://www.jegs.com/i/Trans-Dapt/969/9716K/10002/-1

https://allstarperformance.com/conversion-kit-302-ranger-all38200/