1st gen ranger engine swaps

[ISX_15]

as per thread title , what are some engine swaps that are compatible? We all know 302s are the goto but wheres my 6 cylinder guys and 4 cylinder guys at? If I were to build my truck for a tow pig, low-mid end powerband, what would you guys think?
>4BT cummins (expensive, heavy, lots of fabrication required, but strong)
>4.0 V6 Late ranger
>2.3 I4 Lima Turbo
>can do a v8 , but i only need 200-250HP comfortably, i want gearing and torque to do the rest, efficiency is what im after.
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how hard is swapping the engine if I end up running a standalone ECU or basic setup? emissions is not a issue, off-road vehicle/ private property driven.
I have MOST common hand tools, are engine hoists expensive? what else would I need? Is this something worth diving into or creating a new hobby out of? Im pretty comfortable digging into my current engines top end, but never did a full on rebuild.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Personally if youre after torque id run a 351W with an RV cam. Carburate it to keep it simple. Its a tight fit around the steering box but it has been done. Probably be the best bang for your buck.

Engine hoists range from 50bucks used to 200+ for new.

All i have to really add lol

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Technically anything is possible to swap in… if you have the tools/money/knowledge to do it.

Engine swaps are a tricky thing. Some stuff is somewhat easy like the 4.0 and 302/5.0 just because they’ve already been made to fit the Ranger engine bay from the factory (the Explorer is the one to source a 302 from). Wiring can become a challenge, especially on a 1st gen. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, an engine swap is probably not for you. The 4.0 and 5.0 swaps are also relatively well documented.

The 2.3 turbo swap is also fairly well documented, but if you’re after torque and all, it’s not the motor you want.

Most other motors require custom work to fit and electrical work to run. They can be a real challenge and I’ve seen a number of engine swaps that got abandoned and put up for sale because it was beyond the person’s skill level. Welder is often required at that point.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

To be honest in your situation for what you wanting id just go buy something already more capable of what youre wanting.

Find a halfway decent 460 powered 3\4 or 1 ton and do anything ya need