Air box relocation suggestions?

[seirdian]

I've got a 1997 Ranger XLT with a factory 2.3, I'm swapping in a 302 with explorer front dress. I'd like to relocate or redesign the AC/heater box just to have more room to service the engine and to clean up the engine bay for looks. I can do some basic fab and have the tools to do so, but if like to see a bolt in adjacent idea. I don't know if anyone has done this before and you guys probably know more than me about what's available and what fits in the same

 

[Curious Hound]

Are you wanting to delete AC? Or just re-work the shape of the box? I think you're in the realm of custom fab either way. Earlier versions had an optional non-AC box. But I believe I read that from your version onwards, that was no longer offered. The shape and configuration is different from earlier AC versions, also. I firmly believe that anything you do to try to relicate the AC evap coil will take up even more room.

If it makes you feel any better, what your pictures show looks identicle to my 96 Explorer donor. So, if the 5.0l fit in that, it should fit in your engine bay. Best idea is to lift the body and inch or 2 to gain some working room. It's actually pretty easy.

 

[Curious Hound]

Also, if you DO try to modify that box and mess it up, I have one here, near Greenville, SC. I'm sure we could meet somewhere if you need it.

 

[seirdian]

Are you wanting to delete AC? Or just re-work the shape of the box? I think you're in the realm of custom fab either way. Earlier versions had an optional non-AC box. But I believe I read that from your version onwards, that was no longer offered. The shape and configuration is different from earlier AC versions, also. I firmly believe that anything you do to try to relicate the AC evap coil will take up even more room.

If it makes you feel any better, what your pictures show looks identicle to my 96 Explorer donor. So, if the 5.0l fit in that, it should fit in your engine bay. Best idea is to lift the body and inch or 2 to gain some working room. It's actually pretty easy.

I'm planning to keep the AC, and yeah I've already had the engine in and working previously with that box I just don't like the look and the space it takes up.

 

[seirdian]

Also, if you DO try to modify that box and mess it up, I have one here, near Greenville, SC. I'm sure we could meet somewhere if you need it.

'preciate it