1988 Ranger, to 5.0 1998 explorer swap

[Hades351]

Hi everyone,


I’ve been reading posts and following the forum for a couple of years now, ever since I bought my 1988 Ranger 4x2 with the 2.9L.


My project is to swap in a 5.0 EFI and convert it to 4x4 (though the 4x4 part will come later). I recently picked up a 1998 Explorer 5.0 4x2. I've already removed the 2.9 engine and transmission from my Ranger, but before pulling the engine from the Explorer, I want to disable the PATS system to avoid driving myself crazy if it doesn’t start after wiring and simplifying the harness.


I plan to get the ECU tuned, but besides PATS, I’d like to know what else I should disable. I also have a few questions:

1. Visually, it seems like the 2.9 and 5.0 engine mounts line up without modification. Is that correct, or am I mistaken?
2. From what I’ve read here, the ECU only needs the VSS that comes in the stock 4R70W (I believe it’s located at the tailshaft), and that same sensor would be in the transfer case when I switch to a 4x4 4R70W. Is that accurate?
3. I’ve read that the 5.0 V8 needs 65 PSI of fuel pressure, but I’m not sure if the '98 Explorer uses a return-style or returnless fuel system. Also, I don’t know what pressure my original '88 2.9 pump delivers—I'm guessing it's a return-style system?
4. I’d love to transfer the A/C system from the Explorer into the '88. Does anyone know if the Explorer blower box fits the '88 firewall? My truck didn’t come with factory A/C.
5. This is probably my biggest question: Is there a way I can disable PATS and other unnecessary ECU systems myself—like with software or a programmer—or would it be better to just pay someone to do the tuning? I'm trying to weigh the cost and complexity.
6. I read something about transmission tunnel clearance issues, but it wasn’t clear if I need to cut the pinch weld between the firewall and floor, or if it’s better to just lift the cab 1–2 inches.

Thanks in advance for any info you can share. Even if you don’t answer everything, any input will be helpful.


Best regards!

 

[franklin2]

Here's a article on the v8 swaps into the earlier rangers. I don't see anything about using a explorer motor mount to bolt the engine in place.

V-8 Swaps - 1983-1997 Ford Rangers - The Ranger Station

Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles for smog & engine requirements. Certain states, such as California, require the same year or newer engine as the vehicle. Download The Advance Adapters Booklet HERE Also Check Out Advance Adapters Manual On-Line … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

Now in this article, they say it is a bolt in, but they are messing with a later year ranger.

Swapping An Explorer 5.0L In To A 1998-2011 Ranger - The Ranger Station

Ford Explorer 5.0L V-8 In Ford Ranger* Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles for smog & engine requirements. >Certain states, such as California, require the same year or newer engine as the vehicle. Overview: Using the Explorer 5.0L wiring, … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

I can't find a swap article with the same year spread that you are going to do.

What are you going to do about a speedometer? I guess you could buy a GPS unit. Your 88 uses a cable correct? The explorer you are going to use may not have a cable, only the vss itself.

 

[corson]

Following because I’m also swapping my 98 5.0 into a 2.9 88 lol.
This might help with your motor mounts, it looks like you can just use the 2.9 mounts and then cut the mounting plates out yourself.

Ford Ranger V-8 Engine Swap

www.therangerstation.com