3.0 Duratec Engine into a 1999 3.0 Ranger

[stmitch]

Thanks to all of you guys for the input and education. It seems the two ‘simple’ options are: 1) stick with the 3.0L Vulcan and modify it to the best of it’s ability, or 2) put in a 302.

If Option 2 is selected, which automatic transmission should/can I match with the 302 to put in my 99 XLT without extensive work?

While I’m asking, and because I have a strong feeling that one day I will own a older Ranger with a stick, which manual transmission is easiest to install and works best, with the 302?

I plan on keeping this thread marked for reference so I’m making the most of it. Any and all input will appreciated.

The best approach is to find a 98-01 Explorer with the 5.0 that you can swap parts from. It will have everything you need, and perhaps even things that you want (the rear axle might be more desirable). There are plenty of examples here in the v8 swap section of the forums that you can follow if you search for them.

The Explorer engines got more desirable factory heads and intake manifold than other 5.0s, and it still made just 215hp and 280 ft-lbs at the crank when new. Less than that after 20+ years of use, so you'd want to rebuild it. That's better than the 150/185 that the 3.0 made, but it's a lot of work for what amounts to pretty pedestrian numbers and performance from such a large engine. They are good at making noise, and making the truck even more nose heavy than they already are though.

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

LS

View attachment 71744View attachment 71745View attachment 71746

Are they using the cam to drive the cooling system? Am I seeing that right?

 

[bobbywalter]

Yup

 

[Ranger101]

The best approach is to find a 98-01 Explorer with the 5.0 that you can swap parts from. It will have everything you need, and perhaps even things that you want (the rear axle might be more desirable). There are plenty of examples here in the v8 swap section of the forums that you can follow if you search for them.

The Explorer engines got more desirable factory heads and intake manifold than other 5.0s, and it still made just 215hp and 280 ft-lbs at the crank when new. Less than that after 20+ years of use, so you'd want to rebuild it. That's better than the 150/185 that the 3.0 made, but it's a lot of work for what amounts to pretty pedestrian numbers and performance from such a large engine. They are good at making noise, and making the truck even more nose heavy than they already are though.

Thanks for the info. Do I take the automatic tranny from that same Explorer? Any significant adjustments to make the drivetrain fit?

 

[stmitch]

Thanks for the info. Do I take the tranny from that same Explorer? Any significant adjustments to make the drivetrain fit?

Yes, use the Explorer trans if you want an auto. It's the easiest swap there is in these trucks. Look around and read some of the threads in the v8 swap section to learn more.

 

[Ranger_Al]

Here is a 3.0 L Vulcan Vin 8th letter V or U for compatibility performance-built crate motor $2000

Ford 3.0 V6 183 Long Block Crate Engine Sale, Remanufactured