86 2.9L to 97 5.0L

[jimmyfloyd]

The Ranger is a 86 2.9L 5 speed 4x4. It is the FM156 trans, long wheel base.

The Truck is a 1997 Mountaineer 5.0L Auto.

Both are complete.

What issues will I run into when trying to swap the motor over?

Will it work with the transmission, or will I need to upgrade the transmission and transfer case?

Will the mounts work?

I have heard that 97 parts tend to interchange with the olde rangers, but is this true with the SUVs too, or did their frames/components get updated sooner?

Thanks.

 

[fastpakr]

You'll certainly need different motor mounts to go from your '86 to the 5.0. The stock transmission won't bolt to it, and any adapters available will leave you stuck with a weak transmission. Your best option is a factory V8 transmission and transfer case. You didn't mention if the Mountaineer is AWD, but if so then you can use its transmission and a 4404 from an F150 with manual shift linkage. Wiring is going to be 'interesting' unless you plan to run it using different management (like an EEC-IV Mustang setup, carb, etc). Otherwise you've got to migrate the EEC-V wiring into your rig.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I would keep the stock (new replacement) mounts and use adaptor plates.