Dream come true?

[coulrophobian]

I've been wanting to swap my '89 2WD MT Ranger 2.9 for a 4.0 for probably about 2 years now, but have never really looked too in depth for a donor. It sounds as if I have a lifter collapsed/ing and am becoming somewhat bored of rebuilding the top end (cracked a head twice). A couple of weeks ago, a co-worker said that he was going to have the junk yard come pick up his '94 2WD MT Explorer 4.0. He says that it has no problems, just high miles (200K+) and a rebuilt MT. He said he would sell me the entire vehicle to me for $350. I've ridden in it and never noticed anything out of the norm. Is this not a match made in heaven? Is it too good to be true?

 

[strvger]

well, that is a lot of miles. but if you take care of it, hopefully, it will take care of you. good luck with your swap!

 

[racing83x]

i would say you hit the jack pot. it will work out just fine swapping them too. and really should only take about 3-5 days(with job...etc.) we did a 3.0 to 4.0 swap in a 92 ranger in less than 3 days.

 

[coulrophobian]

UPDATE: I found out it's a 92 Explorer but everything else checks out. Tranny is of the M5OD type. Any pros/cons to the tranny? I figured I would pull out the motor and give it a nice cleaning and replace all the gaskets and bolts on the top end and oil pan. Any other suggestions while I have it out and access to spots that I would have less access to when it's in?

 

[voodoochylde]

If you're going to pull the motor, seriously consider a clutch/flywheel/slave cylinder job. At least look at all components and I'd still replace the slave. Don't forget rear main seal. New oil pump wouldn't be a bad idea either as you have to pull the engine to change it (why pull the motor twice?).

As far as it being a '92, I *think* that'll work out better for you than a '94 anyway. One big difference I can think of is the '92 only uses one O2 sensor VS the '94 using two.

Should be a pretty simple swap with yours being an '89.

Good luck!

 

[strvger]

i've always preferred manual trannies over auto's, but that's just me.