I'm in but it may be over my head...

[Elutheros]

Love the forum and have been using it for a couple weeks to help gather information and solve issues with my newest project. Just thought I should go back and follow the protocol of introducing myself.

Recently bought a 1994 Ranger XLT 4X4 that I knew had blown head gaskets. Turns out the 4.0L is pretty much scrap metal and I've been looking for the best option to replace it. I'm not new to mechanical work or engine swaps--my first was putting a Corvair engine in a 1969 VW bus back in 1974. I got into Volvos in the 90s and began buying wrecked 240/740s and rebuilding them to make college tuition money for my sons. Turned around 18 of them in 2 years and at one point had 13 in the driveway.



Anyway, it is hard to find a good 4.0L OHV these days and I'm not sure I can get a flywheel to go with a SOHC for my M5od-R1, so I'm looking real hard at a Lincoln 5.0HO swap. My biggest concern is keeping the 4X4 operational and with that, the expense of making it work--things aren't getting any cheaper. I'm not looking to build the highest/fastest thing around, just a reliable DD that will occasionally take me in the woods to hunt.

I appreciate the advice some have already given and I look forward to posting my build thread as this progresses.

 

[Mac]

Welcome! Seen some of you posts and questions down in the V-8 section. Guys down there will point you in the right direction, take your time and ask the questions. About any swap combination has been done.
Dave of the Nord

 

[jhammel85]

You sound set on a 5.0 but another 4.0 would be the best all around option for me. Especially money wise...There's nothing to modify. It's hard to find, like you said...Thats the kicker.

 

[Elutheros]

Well, the 5.0 is on hold for now. I found a good 4.0L just 5 miles from my house for a good price. Cranked right up after sitting for months, no smoke, oil and antifreeze are clean and no clatter from the valve train.

I am curious--it has been taken apart at some point because the plastic things used to secure the wiring harness all have duct tape holding the wiring harness on and the gaskets on the intake and valve covers are new. Additionally, the entire engine--water pump and everything is painted gray. Just wondering if that means it is a remanufactured engine.

Got a bonus with it--new clutch and pressure plate which I needed anyway!

I'm going to look it over real close tomorrow and start the installation.

 

[Mac]

Well, that's probably the cheapest route to go. Hope everything turns out good!
Dave of the Nord