1986 Ranger V6 to 4 banger question?

[mhtwin987]

I posted on here a while back and didn't get many responses probably due to not including enuf info. Hopefully this one will clear it up.

I have an '86 Ranger 4x4 with a 2.9 V6 and A4LD trans with BW 1350 xfer case. The short of it all is that I'd like to swap to a 4 banger that's been "souped" up a bit and a matching trans.

I'm a fan of simplicity so my goal is an engine and trans that are basic. Carbed, headers, electronic ignition and no smog stuff. I'm not bound by emissions with this one. I'd also like a trans that has no electronic stuff and is just a trans. That may sound silly to some but I want to get rid of as much electronics as possible. Remember simple. I'd also like to keep the 4x4 functioning.

So here's the question:

Which 4 banger and trans combo can I swap into my truck after removing the v6 and A4LD? I'd prefer an auto trans but any info will help.

So if you have any info I'll thank you in advance since my sched is pretty busy and I may not get back here immediately.

 

[cody93]

autos and 4 bangers will make you open the door and use paddles to get it to go faster.. there much more nicer to drive with 5spd manuals. although the later 2.3L 02+ duratec engines would probly play nicer with an auto, but they never came in 4x4

the A4LD is not one of fords bright spots with transmissions either.. if YOU must use auto, besides the A4LD i thinks the C3 or C5 was used in them.. later rangers used the 4r44e and 5r44e autos, but later 4cyl rangers rarely if at all came with 4x4.... and the xR44e's were electronic controlled...

4cyl auto 4x4 without electronics is realy gona limit your self. i suggest picking 3 out of 4 of your requirements.

auto an 4x4 without electronics would mean bigger engine with a carb and something like a C4

4cyl 4x4 would mean 5spd manual

4cyl auto would mean either 2WD, or computerized engine


id suggest keeping the 2.9...

 

[mhtwin987]

Thanks for the info. I'm looking around at options if the engine ever dies. Right now it's running good.