Swap

[jackothewacko]

Hey everyone, this is my first time posting on here. I've got a 94 ranger xlt 3.0 4x4 standard extended cab. The motor in it runs alright for 200k but when it goes I want more power. I've seen the 5.0 swaps, not many for the 4x4. The only thing I've seen is similar year f150 drivetrain swaps. Or should I get another 3.0 and build it up. I haven't seen much for building the 3.0 up. Would swapping a 4.0 be better? Are there more aftermarket parts for the 4.0 to make more power?
Thanks,
Jacko

 

[franklin2]

What little I know;

3.0 is not a good engine to hop up, no support like you have already found out.

5.0, lots of power potential, but the drivetrain can't handle it. So the reason people upgrade it also with the f150 stuff. If you drive like you have some sense, you can buy adapters to adapt the ranger drivetrain to the 5.0, but they are not cheap.

4.0 will work. Original drivetrain can usually handle it. But you have to learn all about wiring, there is a ton of it to hassle with swapping in the 4.0. Of course there will be the same amount of wiring if you keep the factory 5.0 fuel injection, but you have carb options with the 5.0 as well as aftermarket EFI for it also. But anything aftermarket means more money.

I see you live in PA. Don't forget about vehicle inspections and sniffer tests. Whatever you swap in will have to pass. Even though we live in the USA, we are not free to do what we want sometimes.

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

+1 ^^^
3.0l Vulcan engine is not a great platform for extra power, its a good engine, just not for upgrades

Bookmark this page: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/

Lots of articles from members with "been there done that" info, with pictures

Go the the "Engine & Fuel tech" section
Scroll down to the Ford Ranger V8 swap section, lots of articles

This one is a good one to start with: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/v-8-swaps-1983-1997-ford-rangers/


4.0l swap is basically the same as the V8 swap
Need engine, 4x4 transmission, computer and engine wiring
You could reuse 3.0l transfer case

But you can also sell your 3.0l Ranger 4x4 and buy a Factory 4.0l Ranger 4x4, way less work and probably cheaper, lol, after adding up all the nickle and dime stuff and time

Can't buy a Factory V8 Ranger 4x4
You can buy one swapped, or partially swapped as "life gets in the way" during some swaps