2001 grill/lights on 1998?

[Boiler]

I was unable to find a match using search so I ask: how difficult is it to swap a 2001-2003 headlight grill assy onto a 1998 Ranger? Physically it looks like it should fit but what is required to make the swap work?
Wiring, bumper, header support, etc.


Thanks!

 

[Snal]

You'll need the header panel, grill, radiator shroud, lights, retainer clips for the headlights and the covers on the top if you want them. wiring is all a direct fit except your turn signal has two bulbs and the newer lights have one. what I did with mine is just zip tie the second light out of the way from anything. it lights up the inside of my engine bay a little bit but everything works

 

[TxGasRacer]

http://www.fordrangerforum.com/exterior-tech/14230-front-end-swap-guide-1998-2000-a.html

 

[Boiler]

Snal - radiator shroud? Why does this get replaced? Apparently you have performed this swap. The original bumper and hood can be retained?

GasR - thanks for the link, it helps to have a visual reference too!

 

[dogboy]

I think he talking about the radiator air deflector that is behind/in the grille, not the fan shroud.

You also will either need to get 2wd grill parts, or a new hood and 4wd parts.
The 4wds got the Powerdome hood, and a larger honeycomb style grille. The center part of these hoods stick out about a 1/2"- 3/4" further than a 2wd, so the grilles also stick out to match the hood.
2wd http://www.fordthunderbird.net/page2/winterranger.jpg
4wd http://www.purplewaveauction.com/a/2008/20081229mlio/5743.JPG

EDIT: I suppose if I read the link, I would have already seen that.

 

[Ranger Sport Honduras]

Your stock hood will work with the 2wd grille.
Even with the 4wd it could, but you would need a hood bug dlefector to cover up a bit the gap, since the 4wd hood stickout a bit like stated above.

Personally Id go with the 4wd grille and hood.
Even just the 4wd hood looks really good on our front ends

 

[UrbanRedneckKid]

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128257

There's a few pictures in there that might be of interest to you.

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