4.0 OHV engine compatibility

[mylifesakick]

I have a 1999 ranger 4x4 with a OHV 4.0, that broke a piston, When checking for a used 4.0 I was told it had to be from a 98-2000,
is there a reason a earlier 4.0 wont work if you swap intake and exhaust manifolds? and sensors, or is the block different?.
the reason I ask is I have access to a low mile 1995 4.0 cheap, but if it is too different it isn't worth it, If it would swap, what things would I have to change?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Bump.

 

[SenorNoob]

I know that is about the time SOHC's started showing up. Also I think the heads and pistons changed at some point too. Shouldn't be a problem as long as you get the long block.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

I think you can use the 95 because i *believe* 95 is when the ranger/explorer switched to OBD II.

@adsm08 or @RonD can shed more light on this,

 

[RonD]

You would need a 6 hole flywheel or flexplate for the 1995 engine as your 1999 fly or flex is 8 hole so won't work/fit

Swap over your 1999 upper and lower intake to match wiring and fuel system
Swap over your 2 wire cam synchro/sensor to replace older 3 wire model

I think the 1998-2000 4.0l computer runs a more aggressive spark for faster warm up, I thought I read adsm08 post about this before, as far as swapping whole engine, I know you shouldn't swap heads on those years with other years

 

[Snoranger]

I’ve read that the newer engines use a different chamber design and have a more aggressive spark timing, if you use the older engine / head design you’ll have issues. I never believed it, but also never tried it.
Stay away from the 90-94 engines... they won’t have the holes for your motor mounts on the passenger side won’t be drilled and tapped. I know for sure that only 1 of the 3 bosses will be drilled. They stared drilling the other ones in 95, when the Explorer switched over from TTB.