2.0L Engine

[srisitt]

I'm looking at a 1984 4x4 Ranger that has the 2.0L in it with a rebuilt top end. What is the reputation of this engine as far as reliability, design, known problems etc? I've read the page in the tech lib but I'm interested what owners have to say about it.

 

[gungfudan]

I'm looking at a 1984 4x4 Ranger that has the 2.0L in it with a rebuilt top end. What is the reputation of this engine as far as reliability, design, known problems etc? I've read the page in the tech lib but I'm interested what owners have to say about it.
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So just the top end has been rebuilt? Well they are reliable but the ignition module sucks! It works but when it goes you better have another module with you just in case. I would look at maybe installing a MSD ignition. Now for the carburetor the original is terrible if it is working leave it alone take care of it. I would go to a Webber carb they are more reliable. The engines only make 73-80 hp. I installed an efan and all aluminum radiator and got way better cooling. All and all the engine is not a bad engine they can last a while the parts around them are lacking. I am not familiar with the 84' carb setup but I know the 88' carb was terrible. If you have any other questions ask I know a lot about the 2.0.

 

[srisitt]

So just the top end has been rebuilt? Well they are reliable but the ignition module sucks! It works but when it goes you better have another module with you just in case. I would look at maybe installing a MSD ignition. Now for the carburetor the original is terrible if it is working leave it alone take care of it. I would go to a Webber carb they are more reliable. The engines only make 73-80 hp. I installed an efan and all aluminum radiator and got way better cooling. All and all the engine is not a bad engine they can last a while the parts around them are lacking. I am not familiar with the 84' carb setup but I know the 88' carb was terrible. If you have any other questions ask I know a lot about the 2.0.

Thanks for the response gungfudan. The rebuild was done by a previous owner and the current owner doesn't know if they did more than just the top end. Supposedly it doesn't leak, tick, or smoke. Not sure if they did any work to the fuel or ignition systems but I guess the previous owner went through everything.

How does the 2.0L handle highway/freeway speeds? I've only ever driven a 4.0L v6 so it's roughly half the horsepower. I need something that can handle New Mexico highways for sustained periods. Can it cruise alright at 60-70mph without super high rpm's?

 

[gungfudan]

Thanks for the response gungfudan. The rebuild was done by a previous owner and the current owner doesn't know if they did more than just the top end. Supposedly it doesn't leak, tick, or smoke. Not sure if they did any work to the fuel or ignition systems but I guess the previous owner went through everything.

How does the 2.0L handle highway/freeway speeds? I've only ever driven a 4.0L v6 so it's roughly half the horsepower. I need something that can handle New Mexico highways for sustained periods. Can it cruise alright at 60-70mph without super high rpm's?

I drove mine all the time at 70-75 mph and that was around 3,000 RPMs. I would suggest going with an all aluminum radiator when you can. Also look into getting and setting up a oil catch canister. These engines need it. Is the carburetor stock and is it one or two barrel?

 

[tomw]

The 2.0 is the same as a 2.3 as far as reliability. Less hp and torque, but except for displacement, the same engine.

If there was a problem with the 2.0, I'd prefer to install a 2.3 in its stead. All else being equal, it just has more output.

My 85 2.3 will run about 2500 rpm going 65 in OD. 14" wheels, and factory diff.
tom

 

[srisitt]

Thanks for your responses gung and tom, I decided against this particular one but it's good information to know for my search. I talked to the owner and I guess they more just "went though" the engine, and only ended up replacing gaskets, still no clatter from the valve train supposedly..