88 2.9L must haves?

[NarlinB]

Hello all. I'm new to the ranger field and have made a purchase on my 88 XLT. I plan on having this truck for a while, and was wondering what the must have upgrades are for the 2.9L.

I have ordered parts to overhaul the exhaust including some JBA headers. I also have a 180 degree tstat on the way. I'm also thinking about taking out the AC as I never have used AC in the past. Is it worth it?

Some day I also plan on V8 swapping it, but that is a ways down the road, so I don't want to pour too much money into the engine.

This seems to be a great forum and I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!

 

[Shoddy Cologne]

removing the a/c is a good choice, especially if it doesn't work. it frees up a lot of room to do any maintenance.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

86 and I believe 87 throttle bodies are bigger diameter. I don't believe a 180 thermostat is good, 195 is better for overall longevity and fuel efficiency/power.

 

[NarlinB]

Thanks. I'll have to look into the AC removal. I have not tested it to see if it works, I just never have the need to use it. I forgot about the older throttle bodies, I'll have to pick one up when I get a front bumper. Also, what are your thoughts on a cone filter for and intake?

 

[Shoddy Cologne]

i wouldn't spend the money on a cone filter. if you're planning a v8 swap i'd just do what you gotta do to keep her running.

 

[NarlinB]

Thanks Shoddy. I like that F100 btw.

 

[shortzt]

I may be mistaking but from what I understand the cone filter won't do much at all because if it being speed density vs mass air flow, I did it to mine before my 302 swap and I didn't notice a difference so I switched back so I didn't have an open filter, still ended up hydrolocking my 2.9

 

[adsm08]

1.1 liters more displacement is a 150% must have for the 2.9.

 

[shortzt]

I think he meant to type a 2, 2.1 displacement is a 150% must for the 2.9 lol

 

[adsm08]

No. I mean that it is 150% necessary to add 1.1L of displacement to the 2.9, for a total of 4.0L.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

And short was liking the 5.0

sent while sitting on the throne

 

[adsm08]

And short was liking the 5.0

sent while sitting on the throne

Yes, two more cylinders are nice to have, but he asked about must have, not nice to have.

 

[MoonKnight13]

Www.lmctruck.com
Must have catalog for stock parts.
I also took off the AC from my ride. Just took of the fan clutch and will using electric fan.
Just ordered a new tranny, and a few gaskets

 

[Shoddy Cologne]

someones getting stuff done, unlike me... wish i was putting new exhaust on the '57

 

[shortzt]

I took out my ac, but don't throw away the pump or brackets if you ever plan on on board air it'll come in handy