94 Ranger 2.3 Turbo swap questions

[branw97459]

So I can go pick up a running 2.3 turbo with harness for $300 right now but I was wondering if anyone had some advice.

My truck is a 94 2wd with a 2.3l. So from common understanding this motor should essentially just bolt in correct? But the big question is how long will my tranny last? Also, are there any parts that should be swapped or any little things I should upgrade? This truck is going to be a pavement pounder until my yota is done so it wont be abused. Sorry if this has already been covered but my phone is being a pain right now.

 

[scotts90ranger]

It's pretty much a bolt in, exchange the stock computer for the turbo computer, compare the wiring diagrams between the two engines and make the Ranger harness fit the turbo engine (it'll involve moving under 10 wires in the computer, and changing your MAF sensor connector for the VAM connector), While you are at it for reliabilitys sake I would do like I did and make the DIS from the Ranger engine fit the turbo engine, all you need to do is mount the crank sensor to the front of the turbo block and mounting the ignition module somewhere. The main fitment issue is the heater box will interfere with the turbo exhaust outlet, I notched mine and used a harbor freight plastic welder kit (the soldering iron like one) to weld it back together and put some stick on fiberglass heat stuff on the outside.

Anyway, very doable but not for the faint of heart as there are a lot of little details (like the Ranger oil pan, bolt on on a '86 and up engine, '85 and down require a couple mods...). Don't worry about the tranny, I've been abusing mine for a few years now and it was in like new inside other than needing synchro's when I rebuilt it a few months ago (it had around 200k on it...), if anything would break the tranny my tractor pull a month ago would have, enough power to the ground to lift a front tire and bend a leaf spring.