Advice on 2.9 or 4.0 fix.

[codolten]

Hey guys. I have an 86 with a 2.9L in it currently. My original plan was to get a new 2.9 to replace it, but I am thinking that it might also be more reliable to get the 4.0 in there. I'm definitely trying to be cheap, but what are the general costs of both solutions? If I get the 4.0, what tranny should I get? How much will that cost? Basically I am lost in the sauce and trying to pick my best option. Any advice/solutions would be great. Thanks in advance

 

[adsm08]

My preference would be a 4.0/M5OD combo. The easiest and cheapest way to make that work is to go find a whole vehicle that is wrecked or rusted out and buy it for the parts.

Swaps done piece-meal are usually more expensive and always take longer.

 

[SenorNoob]

I second the buying a running vehicle for the swap. I spent IIRC $1100 at one salvage yard for the parts I needed. $600 for just the engine.. They still recognize me and ask what my Ranger needs now when I come in.