4.0 from 2001 into 98 3.slow, a few ?'s

[kid_crash]

Hey all.
Been a while since I've been here. Here's the situation. My trusty 98 w/ 3.0 5spd is getting tired, I'm looking at a 01 w/ 4.0 auto, the owner says it has a bent frame ( tangled with a tree) if its not fixable would mating the 4.0 to my 5speed need any big deal? I'm thinking there could be some potential wiring/ computer issues. Anyone with experience in this situation?
I haven't seen the rig yet, best case scenario is that I can fix it and run it as is, après toy he is still driving it so it must not be too bad.
Thanks.

 

[SenorNoob]

The bellhousing is different. You'd need a manual transmission from a 4.0 (or late 2.9) vehicle. I haven't a clue on the wiring with that new a model.

 

[RonD]

Fix the bent frame or pass on it.

Swapping an older 4.0l OHV would be easier BUT you would only gain 10-12 horse power, about 8%.

On the 2001 4.0l SOHC(extra 59 horse power over 3.0l, 35% increase) you will need the computer and that means the PATS as well, not a big deal just more work swapping out the steering column or most of it.
Actually you may need a different computer, one for a manual trans, but it would still have the PATS, so you would need that either way.
So donor truck would be good for engine and harness but you would still need to buy another computer with PATS gear.

Rebuilding the 3.0l might be a better way to spend the time and money

Or just do a V8 conversion, even more horsepower and can be less time and money depending on what you want.

 

[kid_crash]

Just picked up the 01. She's pretty beat ? I think I'm just gonna use parts for my 98. I only gave $600 for it, so it's got plenty of use for that price.

 

[kid_crash]

So I've looked the rig over I guess it's not all that bad. It has a dent in the front frame cross member, broken power steering rack. It's in need of new upper control arm & ball joint. I need to do rust repair on the back of the frame, but I found on eBay a person that sells already fabed parts for ranger frame repair. I was already going to make one bed out of the two. So the plan is to fix this rig up for myself, fix up my 98 ( also, ball joints and frame repair), slap a flat bed on it, fresh inspection sticker and then sell it.