1991 Ranger 1996 5.0 Explorer Swap

[91ranger9197]

As the title says I'm swapping parts from a '96 Explorer w a 5.0 into my '91 Ranger 3.0 . Both automatic.
What power mods can I do to the 5.0?
I'm looking for a range of options low budget to mid budget. I've seen a lot about the exhaust and headers being a big factor, are there any headers that will work for this swap as well as add power or am I stuck with what I can get due to fitment?
What about a cam kit and tune?
I'd like to know what I can do/what would be worth doing while I have everything out and before it gets put into the Ranger.
I'm also going to take the 8.8 out of the Explorer for the Ranger. I can see myself going bug budget later on but for now just looking to see what's possible and what's realistically worth it.
Thank you

 

[tinman_72]

Are you looking to keep it EFI?

 

[91ranger9197]

Are you looking to keep it EFI?

Yes

 

[NakedDucks]

I’m following this.

Doing the exact same swap except I’m going ZF trans once the 5.0 is swapped in.

 

[scotts90ranger]

I did a mild cam on my Explorer and it's happy with the stock tune, fuel trims aren't even too out of wack. I did a rebuild at the same time and OBX headers so hard to tell, still haven't ran it before or after driving my '98 stock V8 Explorer to compare...

 

[steven]

I used Hedman 89500 for my swap, they fit good but I have GT40P heads and keep burning up plug wires. These headers should work great for non P heads.

 

[tinman_72]

I've seen a few use tri-Y headers for late 60's Mustangs. I got a set of stainless off eBay but haven't started my V8 project yet.

 

[91ranger9197]

Update:
Engine And Trans pulled from the ranger. Going to clean the engine bay today.
I'm looking for advice on the swap using the donor explorer, I want to spend as little money as possible having the full donor truck at my disposal. I'm okay with buying motor mounts. I'm not looking to build anything crazy just yet just reliable. Specific questions listed and any advice appreciated.
Can I use the a/c system from the exploder? A lot of the ac lines were cut in removing the engine from the ranger. And the core now has holes
I've seen that this year exploder has the headers that will fit, is this true? (1996)
We didn't remove the core support bc pain in the ass to do the front clip, am I able to put the 5.0 back in bolted up or do I have to disconnect it from the trans and do that separately?
Is the oil filter relocation kit a must or can I use a short filter can? Any disadvantages to either?
Will the fuel pump from the ranger work or do I need an aftermarket? Fuel pump on the exploder is shot
I need to take the computer from the exploder, correct? Advice on this topic as well as getting the stock ranger cluster and gages to work.
Sorry for the long read but if you're still here then thank you I appreciate any help that can be given

 

[bobbywalter]

best power mod to a 5.0 explorer engine.....

 

[bobbywalter]

or.....

 

[bobbywalter]

if you really want the windsor.....

step a

185cc SBF Street Cylinder Head

Cylinder Head Specialists

www.airflowresearch.com

https://www.speedwaymotors.com/COMP-Cams-CL35-324-8-Xtreme-Energy-Hyd-Roller-Camshaft-Kit-Ford-5-0L,223345.html

step b

Ford Small Block to Ford Modular (4R70/6R80/10R80) V8 Transmission

Performance Parts, Transmission Adapter, Ford Modular, 10R80, 6R80 7.3L, Godzilla engine, Small block Ford, Ford SBF, 351W, 351C, Windsor, Cleveland, 302, 300, Ford Engine, Transmission, Modular, Mustang, Fox body, 5.0, Small block, Bronco, F100, F150,

performanceadapters.com

US Shift Quick 6 Transmission Controller with Harness

FREE SHIPPING Supports 2011+ Ford 6R80 Transmissions Now featuring pre-loaded data, no longer requiring a clutch learning procedure Simplified setup allows you to install and drive immediately Shift quality improvements result in consistent, excellent, OEM-quality shift feel Compatible with...

matthillmotorsports.com

decent trans andt case under 1 k....


those things will make a radical difference on a 302 windsor swap.