2.9 to 4.0 swap

[chrismaulesdangerranger]

hi im new to this site im not sure what im doing yet..so im on my third ranger its an 86 2.9 5 speed 4x4. the old 2.9 is getting tired(valve tap oil smells like gas all that good stuff) im wanting to put a 4.0 in it if i keep it. ill probably get one out of a 92 or 93 ranger/exploder. im curious what else i need besides the engine and PCM. if someone could help that would be great. also this ranger and my other 86(2.3 5 speed 4x4) are both for sale. ask me for more details thanks chris

 

[adsm08]

An M5OD trans would be a good idea, but not absolutely necessary. You will need engine wiring and probably dash wiring.

Exhaust will need some work but I'm not sure how much.

I think that the engine mounts are compatible, but it would be a good idea to replace them while you already have the engine out. I've done it on a car with much more open space while the engine was in, PITA.

Document your work as you go, let me know what all you do end up needing since I plan on doing this to my 87 in a year or two.

 

[Will]

You need a donor vehicle. Period. That's how much need to be changed. That's how I did mine. You also need to get on Helminc.com and get the factory wiring diagrams for both vehicles. They are $10 each and the difference between having a 3,500# hunk of scrap metal and a running vehicle. I would also get the EVTM for them, or at least the donor.

If you don't do these things, Vegas will give heavy odds against you succeeding.

 

[MountainMike]

And I don't know what rear axle you have but when you get the donor vehicle take the 8.8 if it is so equipped. One of the guys I work with did this same swap (almost exactly).

 

[chrismaulesdangerranger]

thanks for the help! the truck is for sale now so i think ill just put another 2.9 in it. im looking for an 88 4x4 ext cab, so if i find one it will eventually get a 4.0 swap

 

[Z3CHYD]

Hi chris!!! lol