2.3 Problems??

[88ranger2.95sp]

Hey all. I have the oppertunity to buy add yet another ranger to my collection. This would be number four.

It's a 1997 2.3 5sp 2wd short box, short cab. 11x,000 miles. Body is in GGGRREEAAT shape. Clutch is good. Interior is mint. $700.

Problems: Needs lower ball joint. No problem. Needs catalytic converter. No problem. Needs timing belt. Problem.

The timing belt blew. Is this a problem, and is the 2.3 an interferance (?) engine? I think that's what it's called, meaning the valves hit the pistons when the belt blew. I don't want to deal with this foolishness if it's this big of a problem. But the guy is a neighbor of mine and he said it's not that type of engine. Help?

Also, is it possible to bypass the cat with straight pipe, and put a turbo muffler with a turndown? Or will the engine light always be on?

It has a 5sp. I believe it's a M5R1. That's what the computer said at work. Is this the same as the M5OD?

Does it have an 8.8 or 7.5? I never thought to look. I'd think that it has the 8.8 because it's newer. The reason I ask is that I have a 7.5 with l/s and 4.10's. In a 4cyl, I think it would be sweet.

The first thing I thought of was a 2.3T swap...

Help me out guys, this one looks like a keeper.

Rob

 

[Ranger44]

They are a non-interference engine. The valves do not contact the pistons.

If you run a straight pipe, the second O2 will go crazy and you'll have a DTC.

I'd just replace the cat.

Man, I wish I could come across something like that. I want just what you've got sitting there.

It'd have a 7.5.

Well, I'd get it. The body is worth $700 IMO.

 

[ILLEGALCONCEPTS]

I agree, wish I could find a deal like that. The 4.10's and LS with the 2.3 is a nice combo. I am running 28" tall tires right now and do a good bit of shifting until I hit 4th/5th. If your going to run stock size tires I wouldn't go that steep.

James