help me get a 96 5.0 into a 86 ranger

[AirborneJordan]

Also, I went ahead and bought a harwood performance manual. I am reading through that right now.

 

[Teddyzee]

Depends on your goals.

The Explorer has the MAF meter built into the stock air intake tube, for example, like a newer Ranger. Not quite as good looking as some of the Mustang parts, if you care about that sort of thing.

Your truck looks mean... I'll assume you will keep a 4wd trans/transfer case combo, rather than the Explorer AWD system?

This means littel ting like the check engine light being on, as the ECU will be looking for the Ex trans.
The Mustang harness is completely separate from any other truck system, so that is a bonus.
If you decide to use Mustang parts, you will need a distributor(TFI style), harness, ecu, MAP sensor, MAF meter if you use that syle (Speed density systems were also available in '86-'88) then you should have most everything elso already on the Ex (ECT, ACT, etc... lol)

This will show all the parts involved, it's the Motorsport harness, same as '93 stang.
http://www.fordfuelinjection.com/files/M-12071-C302.pdf

 

[Teddyzee]

If you have any wiring questions, no matter which way you go, we're happy to help.

 

[AirborneJordan]

Your truck looks mean... I'll assume you will keep a 4wd trans/transfer case combo, rather than the Explorer AWD system?

At first I am just thinking of swapping the exp drive train in for the cheapest route. Unless that will not work.I know it is not the best 4x4 system to get started. I am just really on the smallest budget I can get away with. In time I am planning on running a Advanced adapter to the BW1354. This truck will not really be an off roader or a daily driver. I will just be using it for when I need a pick up and plowing snow in the winter.(that's why i went with the 5.0) not to mention the cool factor.

 

[Teddyzee]

That should work great, and be easiest (AWD). I'm sure between your current front driveshaft, or the Explorer one, something should bolt right up. That's what I would watch for when deciding where to place the engine. (there is a couple inches in each direction available if you choose Mustang mounts)

I don't really know anything about 4x4 stuff, although I do have an AWD 5.0 Ex that I just parted out.

Best of luck.