351W into '97 Ranger Questions

[runningslow]

My truck is a '97 Ranger SuperCab 2.3L 2WD.

I'm in the planning stages of a motor swap that's probably still a few months out. However, I want to do my homework and get everything in line before I take my truck off the road to minimize downtime.

I had been leaning towards a 302 swap, for ease of fitment and plenty of resources from those having already done it. However, I may be able to get my hands on a cheap 351W. I don't know what its from, what condition its in etc, but I think its worth considering. I'm going to try and learn more about it soon.

So, with a 351W in mind, here are a few questions:

- Will I be able to retain the A/C? I live in Florida and I definitely consider this a dealbreaker.

- Will my front suspension be able to take the extra weight? Aside from stronger shocks, is there anything I'll have to do?

- Can I do this without using a body lift? This is going to stay a 2WD street machine and probably get lowered an inch or two. I don't want to install a 3" body lift and then have to lower the suspension 4-5" to get the look I want.

- Which tranny would be best? I'd like to stay with a manual transmission, but would consider an auto. The truck would be used for light towing and hauling from time-to-time, but would be mostly for weekend cruising and occasionally commuting. Also, which will have the fewest clearance issues, considering my above question?

Well, those are the big ones for now, but I'm sure I'll have more as the project develops. I know about the header clearance issue and I guess I'll just cross that bridge when I get there.

 

[TOPDOG2007]

For minimal down time and ease of use I would go with a 302!

 

[Teddyzee]

In most instances, you'll get more power with a 5.0 HO. Talking about stock.

To keep AC, you'll want Explorer 5.0 or sn95 Mustang 5.0 Front timing cover/water pump/accessories.

With standard FEAD, that will mean moving the rad to where the AC condenor is now.

 

[runningslow]

For minimal down time and ease of use I would go with a 302!

302 would be my first choice, but since I may have the option to acquire a cheap 351W I'm leaning towards that. That's why I'm asking questions: I want to hear from guys that have done a 351W and that can answer my questions and help me prepare for the complications.

Anyone have input? (besides suggestions to get a 302)

If you have a good list of Pros/Cons of 351W vs 302, that may be helpful as well.

 

[runningslow]

In most instances, you'll get more power with a 5.0 HO. Talking about stock.

Yes, but in the long term who said anything about keeping it stock? It would be stock at first (and anything would be an improvement on the anemic 2.3L), but I would eventually build the motor up.

To keep AC, you'll want Explorer 5.0 or sn95 Mustang 5.0 Front timing cover/water pump/accessories.

Ok, so that's to keep AC on a 5.0, but would that work with the Windsor? I understand some parts are interchangable? If AC is impossible (impractical) on a Windsor, I'll scrap the idea and go to a 302 or a 4.0.

 

[RangerSVT]

Front suspension, bag it, and you don't have to slam it to put air bags on, most bags will give you from 6-8 inches of travel, so by the time you put your brackets in, you should be right where you need/want it....As for transmissions, I'd go T-5 from a mustang...
SVT

 

[Teddyzee]

The front accessories I mention will fit a 351. Everything Mustang will work on a 351, except oil pan and pickup, distributor, lower intake manifold, headers.

Only non bolt-on, that I know of, for what you want to do is the headers. But someone alse may have an answer there, too.

 

[v-8power]

My truck is a '97 Ranger SuperCab 2.3L 2WD.




So, with a 351W in mind, here are a few questions:

- Will I be able to retain the A/C? I live in Florida and I definitely consider this a dealbreaker.


Yes you can keep the A/C if you want.


- Will my front suspension be able to take the extra weight? Aside from stronger shocks, is there anything I'll have to do?



There isn't anything you need to do to the front suspension.



- Can I do this without using a body lift? This is going to stay a 2WD street machine and probably get lowered an inch or two. I don't want to install a 3" body lift and then have to lower the suspension 4-5" to get the look I want.



No lift needed



- Which tranny would be best? I'd like to stay with a manual transmission, but would consider an auto. The truck would be used for light towing and hauling from time-to-time, but would be mostly for weekend cruising and occasionally commuting. Also, which will have the fewest clearance issues, considering my above question?



This is just personal preference. Use whatever you can get for the best price. IMO



Well, those are the big ones for now, but I'm sure I'll have more as the project develops. I know about the header clearance issue and I guess I'll just cross that bridge when I get there.


There are company's that make a 351W swap header.

It may be a little more work doing a 351w, but most guys who have done them are happy with their results.

 

[runningslow]

The front accessories I mention will fit a 351. Everything Mustang will work on a 351, except oil pan and pickup, distributor, lower intake manifold, headers.

Only non bolt-on, that I know of, for what you want to do is the headers. But someone alse may have an answer there, too.

Thanks! I guess I was just a little unclear with your first post.

Thanks to v-8power, too! Your answers were just what I wanted to hear. I did just try doing a quick search for 351w swap headers, but came up empty. Do you know any manufacturers off hand? Every 351W swap I came across made use of custom headers.

This is starting to sound pretty feasible. I'm up for a challenge.

 

[v-8power]

Thanks! I guess I was just a little unclear with your first post.

Thanks to v-8power, too! Your answers were just what I wanted to hear. I did just try doing a quick search for 351w swap headers, but came up empty. Do you know any manufacturers off hand? Every 351W swap I came across made use of custom headers.

This is starting to sound pretty feasible. I'm up for a challenge.

Total performance out of Michigan. They are pretty expensive but you might check into it.

Name: Total Performance
Street: 44050 North Groesbeck Highway
Clinton Township, mi 48036-1108
Phone: (586) 468-3673

 

[runningslow]

So, the swap is getting closer, so time to dig up this old thread...

I've been told I could have the 351W for free, but its "wore out." So, I'm looking into budget rebuild options. Anyway, the guy I'm getting it from said it came from either a '73 or '74 Torino. Since I don't have to worry about any emissions testing or inspections, swapping in a carbed 351W seems like a good option.

I'm going to start putting together my shopping list.

 

[RangerSVT]

I'm not sure on the 351, but depending on your mounting location, it should be possible to hook up the AC, check out my build thread as I have factory
AC on my 96...
SVT

 

[runningslow]

Would it be possible to retain my factory 5-speed tranny? At least until I blow it up or find a good T-5, or another good manual?

I see the adapter plate from Advance Adapters P/N 712541, but it looks like that'll cost $300. I'm guessing I could find a suitable T-5 or a C4 for much less than that.

 

[RangerSVT]

I'm sure you could get an adapter plate to make it work, but as you found out, they aren't cheap. You could get an M5ODR2 (from a full size), but it would be better (and more a lot more fun) to run the T5
SVT

 

[COPPERHEAD85]

The 351 would be worth in IMO,I wish i would have went that way to begin with.
Your gonna have way more grunt in the low end than with the 302.