Motor and transmission

[Graven92]

Hello everyone,
I'm new to this site but have seen different articles when it comes to ford rangers.
I have a 98 ranger 4.0 but want to do an engine swap, I was thinking of the 4.6 v8 terminator engine from the cobra an was wondering what all had to be done if I needed a new computer an transmissions, I was also wondering if I had to regear the rear end, any info should help, I'm honestly do this with a Haynes manual, things I've seen from this page an whatever I find on the internet but this page has been the biggest help..
Thanks for everything an hope to be putting up pics an a video when this truck is completed

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Wireing, motormounts, trans, ECM, probably gauges, plus alot of cutting, the 4.6 is roughly the size externally of a 460.

You would be better off building a hot 302.

 

[tinman_72]

There is a series on YouTube from PowerNation or Trucks! or one of those shows where they put one into a Mazda p/u.

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

Yes, you would need the whole drive train with computer and wiring harness for engine and trans
Yes, you should use a different rear axle and some frame reinforcement, gearing would be your choice, i.e. top speed or fast starts

Anything CAN be done, Rangers limitation is mostly width in engine bay, you can get more length by cutting out firewall and/or moving radiator/support
And height can be dealt with by a body lift

But the width is the width, between frame rails and then steering column, and who needs a heater/fan box, lol
I wouldn't plan on AC, but anything CAN be done

The 302(5.0l) OHV V8 is 19" wide, and fits in a Ranger but barely