2005 conversion

[danimal121]

Hey guys I have a 2005 ranger XL single cab with a four-cylinder engine and manual transmission. This is my third ranger and I was thinking about doing a V8 swap on this and possibly converting to four-wheel-drive. With this be worth it or should I find a 4 x 4 Ranger and then just swap the engine? I have 220,000 miles on this four-cylinder and I would like more speed. Any advice is much appreciated.


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[RonD]

Welcome to TRS


You would be better off to get Factory 4WD Ranger, than trying to convert 2WD to 4WD

V8 conversions after around 2003 become harder because of the electronics used in the vehicle, although certainly doable

Bookmark this page, loads Ranger info: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index.shtml

Look at Conversions at the bottom to see V8 stuff and what is needed.

 

[don4331]

Why not think about a turbo? Cost is probably similar.

Is it an 'Edge' (torsion bar front suspension) or not (coil spring front suspension)?
If it is torsion bar front suspension, installing 4x4 front axle is just adding (welding) a couple brackets in addition to all the front end parts from a '01-11, transmission and ideally manual transfer case.
If it is coil spring, a solid front axle is easier that installing Ford IFS and you are looking at serious fabrication.