1997 2.3 single cab 2wd to 302 carb v8 swap questions

[Madman2021]

want to swap my 2.3 for a 1985 v8 302 carbed. i dont want fuel injection. grew up on carbs. i know the basics of the swap but i need some help as this is my first car engine swap. swapped boats and jetskis before. where to start? i have the engine picked out, i want a c4 trans. will stick with the 7.5 4:10 axle for a little while till i find a good deal on an 8.8. will i still be able to use my original a/c and heater. what mods are needed to fit the engine. does the stock shifter hook up to the c4? how to extend the condesor lines to put it in front of my radiator. would like electric fans but if mechanical fits its staying. what headers to use? cheaper the better. this is a budget build. emissions arent an issue. stock driveshaft useable? any info greatly appreciated.

 

[Teddyzee]

Just read some build threads on here and the other Ranger sites.

Remember, the 1985 Mustang GT came with a 7.5 rear. Your truck will be fine.

As stated in your other thread, you can use a mechanical fan if you use a short front accessory drive.

 

[bigblockford79]

Easiest way to get the "short" accessory drive system is to find an explorer and take the brackets, water pump, and timing cover. all this will be needed to make it work well. On my 95 2wd swap I will be using the 83 marquis manifolds that came and engine i bought a while back. They are small, and have a good usable angle where the pipe connects.

 

[Madman2021]

Well update. Found out the 1985 302 only has 122 hp and lower compression ratio. Might be getting a 1994 efi and convert to carb instead. Motor is out of a f150.