- Joined
- Sep 21, 2007
- Messages
- 1,420
- Reaction score
- 655
- Points
- 113
- Location
- Wa, Bremerton 98310
- Vehicle Year
- 1987
- Make / Model
- Ford
- Engine Size
- 87Ranger Endrigo 2.9l, 87BII Endrigo 4.0l
- 2WD / 4WD
- 4WD
- Total Lift
- Ranger 5" (2" suspension), BII 4" suspension
- Total Drop
- Ranger 5sp, BII A4LD
- Tire Size
- Ranger 33"/4:10LS, BII 29"/3:73LS
- My credo
- Deengineer until it is how Blue Oval should have sold it!!
Kirby,
If I were using a 98 spec engine in a 91-94 chasis, there is no question which components I would use; they are the same that I recommend.
Using 94 spec pistons with 94 spec heads is the simplest option, as it will require no tuning.
A) Since pistons must be changed to accomplish this, using 01 SOHC 4.0L flat top pistons with the 94 spec head is a much better solution as your engine will benefit from the extra point of compression. You will then also have the benefits of fresh pistons/rings for higher engine reliability.
B) The only other factor is the exhaust manifold. If you are using 98, then I would definitely get 98 heads, and leave the pistons alone. If you will be using headers, then I would get 98 spec heads and have them flow bench port/polished to you intakes and headers. Neither the 94 or 97 spec exhaust manifold will be optimum with 98 heads.
Here are the 2 choices I completely advice against:
1) 94 pistons/ 97 or 98 heads (compression raised more than 1 point and unknown CLEARANCE)
2) 98 pistons/ 97 or 94 heads (reduced compression and performance).
Buying anything from Morana would be a WASTE of money. New or refurbished 94 spec heads with 94 pistons is your #1 simplest build for your computer.
He does sell some items that are worth consideration but his prices are out of this world. The reduced weight piston rods he sells are a great move but they are just the light weight stock set that Ford offered. If you want more info on them, I have it all. They are worth using just not for the Morana cost.
**IF YOU FIND THAT YOU MUST CHANGE** the pistons, then the use of the SOHC 4.0L flat tops (+3%) with 94 heads, Ford's 4.0L light weight piston rods and a complete bottom end balance (+10%) will transform your engine into what Ford should have delivered.
I do not know your expected annual distance driving but the 13% (conservative) improvement in fuel economy will eventually pay for the expense.
If I were using a 98 spec engine in a 91-94 chasis, there is no question which components I would use; they are the same that I recommend.
Using 94 spec pistons with 94 spec heads is the simplest option, as it will require no tuning.
A) Since pistons must be changed to accomplish this, using 01 SOHC 4.0L flat top pistons with the 94 spec head is a much better solution as your engine will benefit from the extra point of compression. You will then also have the benefits of fresh pistons/rings for higher engine reliability.
B) The only other factor is the exhaust manifold. If you are using 98, then I would definitely get 98 heads, and leave the pistons alone. If you will be using headers, then I would get 98 spec heads and have them flow bench port/polished to you intakes and headers. Neither the 94 or 97 spec exhaust manifold will be optimum with 98 heads.
Here are the 2 choices I completely advice against:
1) 94 pistons/ 97 or 98 heads (compression raised more than 1 point and unknown CLEARANCE)
2) 98 pistons/ 97 or 94 heads (reduced compression and performance).
Buying anything from Morana would be a WASTE of money. New or refurbished 94 spec heads with 94 pistons is your #1 simplest build for your computer.
He does sell some items that are worth consideration but his prices are out of this world. The reduced weight piston rods he sells are a great move but they are just the light weight stock set that Ford offered. If you want more info on them, I have it all. They are worth using just not for the Morana cost.
**IF YOU FIND THAT YOU MUST CHANGE** the pistons, then the use of the SOHC 4.0L flat tops (+3%) with 94 heads, Ford's 4.0L light weight piston rods and a complete bottom end balance (+10%) will transform your engine into what Ford should have delivered.
I do not know your expected annual distance driving but the 13% (conservative) improvement in fuel economy will eventually pay for the expense.
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