Can I swap a 2.9L with a 3.0 engine?

[rangerraul]

When I was out of state working my truck threw a rod and a bunch of other stuff, I drive a 1987 ranger with a 2.9L. There is a few 3.0 engines avalible near me. Can I swap my 2.9 with a 3.0? I'm in califorina is thats important.

 

[don4331]

The quick answer is no: Your existing transmission won't bolt up the the 3.0.

On the other hand, your transmission will bolt up to a 4.0 (Look in the Tech library for 2.9 to 4.0 swaps).​

4.0 is basically a bored and stroked 2.9​

You want to stay pre-'00, for the 4.0 OHV engine to avoid additional complications.​

As I understand California emissions, the newer engine would be OK.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Keep the 2.9.

Youll have to change motormounts, tranny, wiring, ECM, basically everything.

Youll also experience a drop in power.

Find another 2.9 to put in. Or do the wiring and put in a 4.0.

 

[JoshT]

Don4331 is steering you right.

In a way Rusty is too. For either swap (3.0L or 4.0L) It's not going to be a simple bolt the engine in and go. You'll need all of the engine related electrical and emissions equipment from the donor vehicle to have a chance at it being legal in Cali. The 4.0L can probably use the same motor mounts and transmission as teh 2.9L. The 3.0L will need everything.

Before you embark on that journey I'd suggest chatting with someone that is very familiar with Cali's emissions and vehicle inspection laws. I'd really recommend finding someone who is familiar with the ins and outs of these types of swaps. They are more likely to know what can actually be done (cause they've done it) rather than the talking points of some customer service agent.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Don4331 is steering you right.

In a way Rusty is too. For either swap (3.0L or 4.0L) It's not going to be a simple bolt the engine in and go. You'll need all of the engine related electrical and emissions equipment from the donor vehicle to have a chance at it being legal in Cali. The 4.0L can probably use the same motor mounts and transmission as teh 2.9L. The 3.0L will need everything.

Before you embark on that journey I'd suggest chatting with someone that is very familiar with Cali's emissions and vehicle inspection laws. I'd really recommend finding someone who is familiar with the ins and outs of these types of swaps. They are more likely to know what can actually be done (cause they've done it) rather than the talking points of some customer service agent.

The 4.0 will bolt in. Motormounts and trans is the same.

Wiring is different but i dont know the specifics.

Being an 87 youll have either the TK5 or mitsu trans (if 5 speed), if an auto the "weaker" A4LD, none of which will laat super long with the extra 4.0 power.

 

[JoshT]

The 4.0 will bolt in. Motormounts and trans is the same.

To be clear, I said probably because can doesn't mean should. As you stated, the transmissions of his year will work with the 4.0L but they are a little on the weak side. While the original motor mounts can be retained, they could probably stand to be replaced after 30 years. If you've got the engine out, access to the motor mounts will never be easier and you may as well go with the 4.0 speced units.