Big 'Ol Hole in the Block - Need a Duratec

[85_Ranger4x4]

Used car market is all screwy too, a lot has changed in three years.

Even at work for late model stuff, used engines are virtually non existant.

 

[stmitch]

I'd probably consider a 2.5 Duratec swap. They're way more common than the Ranger Duratecs (less expensive), and the additional displacement can give you a little bump in power too. You'd need to salvage some parts from your 2.3 (oilpan, front cover, intake and exhaust manifolds) but the important stuff is all the same.

The 2.5 will have balance shafts in the bottom end that the 2.3 does not. They can be removed to simplify and add lightness. The VVT can be deleted relatively simply as well since the Ranger PCM won't control it.

new guy, 2006 ranger with a 2.5L duratec swap - Ranger-Forums - The Ultimate Ford Ranger Resource

Member Introductions - new guy, 2006 ranger with a 2.5L duratec swap - Hi guys, My name is Chris. I recently obtained a 2006 Ranger from a family member that had a bad engine. I thought about fixing the engine but my relative who had it tried to do a timing chain replacement and re-used the...

www.ranger-forums.com

 

[DaveH]

Dang, I'm new to the 2.3 problem, but had the same issue. Hole in the block 228K. The issue for me is finding one that is Plug and Play also. Want to use the truck for a parts getter, small remodel job machine. I'm trying to find out if the 05 auto block and the 06 manual block are the same.

 

[RonD]

Yes, they are, 2001-2011 Ranger and B2300 used the same 2.3l Duratec engine

2001-2003 had different intake and thermostat, so swap those out, if you get one of those years

Manual or auto used same engine

 

[DaveH]

Yes, they are, 2001-2011 Ranger and B2300 used the same 2.3l Duratec engine

2001-2003 had different intake and thermostat, so swap those out, if you get one of those years

Manual or auto used same engine

Good to hear! I can pick up a complete engine for $400. Use whatever parts I need.