2002 3.0 Questions (Exhaust, Heads, Etc)

[96lowranger]

Well, it has been a long time since I logged on here. I just purchased a 2002 Ranger with the 3.0 / 5 speed setup and I had some questions. I am looking at some exhaust modifications and was curious if a earlier y pipe would fit the truck. I see that a 99' y pipe has no cats, and I do not have any emissions testing in my area. Just curious if anyone had done this, or knew if it would work. I am also looking for an affordable set of headers to go along with this. The JBA set is a little spicy for my budget as I have some other suspension related issues to fix. Any help is appreciated. I'll be tinkering with this one a fair bit and will probably have other questions. I appreciate any info, so thank you in advance!

 

[mikkelstuff]

As a 2002 Ranger 3.0L owner, I was not aware that most modifications, such as the exhaust, are going to gain any power worth the cost. Turbocharging seems to be worthwhile but don't think it readily available. The 5.0L V8 (Explorer) upgrade would be worthwhile especially since you have no emissions restrictions - unlike Colorado.

Better, my opinion, to put money into brakes - the Mustang rear disk brake conversion and 2004 Ranger front brakes as I have done.

Also, how is your interior? The driver's seat was really bad when I inherited my 2002 from my Dad. Had the entire interior (seats, headliner, and sun visors) redone at a local auto upholstery shop. One of my best investments along with a decent stereo/radio/bluetooth player.

 

[Lefty]

I installed a simple dual exhaust sytem and a K&N air filter too. Niether really changed the mileage or the performance. I've learned this has a lot to do with te way that the Ranger 3.0 is cammed. The valves don't offer much lift. The engine just doesn't really breathe well. It's made for long life instead.