Donor options: 2003 3.0 -> 4.0 SOHC

[NO mind]

I have a 2003 Ranger Edge (torsion front suspension) 3.0 2wd manual in California (smog applies so no 5.0 option in this year ) and am looking for a suitable ranger for a 4.0 4wd (electronic activation) manual trans donor.

I have heard that there are certain years that are better suited for this swap (PATS issues, better axle. etc.), and some years that are just not compatible. I am hoping there is someone here with some experience with the year and smog requirements that effect my installation and can shed some light on things to look for or avoid.

At very least, can someone please confirm what the compatible/best years are for donors on this swap?


THANKS IN ADVANCE!

 

[RonD]

Not a good swap with any Ranger

Better swap would be to get a 1998 to 2003 4WD 4.0l Ranger supercab and swap your body over to it.
2001 and up have the 4.0l SOHC engine and "live axle" so probably best years

2004 got the digital dash and Smart Junction box, 2003 and earlier had analog dash and GEM, so easier swap

PATS is an extra layer but not an issue as long as you get keys with the 4WD Ranger

Changing a 2WD into a 4WD is not something even Ford did, 4WD is built from frame out, it isn't just a "bolt on" option
You CAN do anything, of course, also in Calif. you will need to go thru a Road worthiness inspection, which isn't free, when you changing the drive train, by swapping bodies you don't, as far as I know

 

[NO mind]

All good information except that as I stated, this is an EDGE edition with torsion bar suspension. As such, this is a 4x4 chassis with a 2wd drivetrain. The process for making it 4wd is relatively straight forward with the necessary parts from the donor.

My real question is regarding the motor and electronics swap.
It seems from RonD that there is an updated dash and therefor electronics that make it necessary to swap the whole instrument cluster from the donor if 2004+? Is it possible to successfully swap all the electronics from a 2004+ into my 2003 without compatibility issues?
Are there any other potential problems such as electronics or engine bay components fitting under my hood? I do have the "power dome" (or whatever they call it) hood that was added to accommodate the 4.0 so clearance should not be an issue at least.

My question regarding the 4x4 conversion aspect is more from a better year/parts stand point. Is there a particular year of Ranger that came with beefier components like the stronger 8" axel or different spline count shafts that would make upgrading and customizing more lucrative?