2.9L Need more power

[Clord430]

I need to put more power in my 1990 Ranger. It has 2.9L with manny tranny, 2WD.
It is possible to drop a 4.0L in with the matching computer and some tweaks but I wanted to know what I might squeeze out of the 2.9. There are after market products like the GForce chip, more air in, a rebuild and larger dual exhaust. What thoughts here? I just dont see getting what a 4.0 will give me but these days cost is always a factor. Just looking for options.
I already have a line on a limited slip rear. Reason for upgrade is I am now pulling a boat. Going up steep grades the best I can do is 42mph. The boat is not that heavy, the Ranger is just that worn out.
I thought about an old F150 but I like my Ranger.
Regards,
Clord430

 

[Psychopete]

If the engine is tired, it's tired - but tune it up as best as you can, pay attention to mpgs, gears would be a big help too.

The 4.0L can really dish out some low end torque that would be good for pulling that boat. Some of the items you listed may help marginally; but for the cost I don't think you will be happy with the outcome. Rebuild is definitely not cheap. =/ I cut my losses on my 2.9L project, sold/traded everything I had that was 2.9L related, and went with a different engine and drive train. 2.9Ls are not bad engines, don't get me wrong, but they have flaws that make me think twice about ever owning another one. Mine lasted 98K, but some others have 300K+. I rebuilt w/ street cam, found a M90 and had some stuff to make it work, but changed streams and went with something more common, more aftermarket, and more important, more cubes and pistons.