Fender Compatibility From 83 to a 92

[Acgallen]

I'm fairly new to the Ranger scene as I just bought one. I couldn't seem to find any discussion posts on body parts that would swap from certain years. I have a 92 Extended Custom and I love the 83-88 fender/front, so i'm wondering if the body lines and front/hood would line up the same. I figured the id have to configure the wiring system for the headlights a bit different and get new headlights. I'm 19 y/o haha so any expertise would be much appreciated!

 

[1986RangerXL]

Not an expert but in the tech section the dimensions for Rangers 83-92 are the same. I think they only changed the shape of the front to make it appear more smooth. With the 83-88 fenders your headlights and bumper will not bolt on, I'm not sure about the grille

Oh, and removing the fenders is fairly simple. On my 86' I just popped the hood and took the bolts on top out, a couple in the front behind the headlights and a couple more behind the door hinges

 

[Acgallen]

Thank you! I figured id have to get a new grill and headlights but its good to know its an easy bolt on

 

[rusty ol ranger]

The body lines are the same from firewall back on the 83-92s. However, im not sure if a 83-88 front clip will "bolt right on" to a 89-92 front supports.

Externally it will look fine, but mounting it maybe a pain.

 

[lvwill]

I'm pretty sure that the core support is different and the bumpers mount differently

 

[Ramcharger90]

Your best bet is finding the whole front clip and wiring.

I plan on doing the same and making a new frame and swing open front end for fast engine removal.

https://imgur.com/a/w4I9Rhy

 

[adsm08]

The cab from the firewall back is the same part from 83-92. The core support, inner fenders, and front end sheet metal all operate as a set though, so to swap the front fenders, grille, etc, you have to swap the parts they bolt to as well.

The bumper is also a small issue as the frame horns are a little different..

 

[Acgallen]

Thank you! Seems like it will be more work than i thought but why not

 

[Acgallen]

Thank you, that diagram helps alot!

 

[Acgallen]

So making new fender supports might be my best option?

 

[adsm08]

So making new fender supports might be my best option?

Or, you know, find a 1st gen in the junk yard and spend an hour with a 10mm socket, a screw driver, and a spot weld cutter/cordless drill getting a whole front clip.