intro post from the Desert Ranger

[Desert Ranger]

This is the second spring season on my first Ranger project, an 85 STX. Ive done the basic engine mods, duraspark conversion, Holley 2bbl, snorkel, electric push/pull fan system,and a little more free flowing muffler. Body mods have been mild, a little fender trimming for a set of grippy 31x10.5 goodyear tires, and other trail modications to store gear(BII tire carrier) so I can get myself out of a pinch if need be. I'm waiting for body lift parts in the mail to install before I replace the 2.8 this summer. Your forum will help me to decide whether to waste the money to pump up the turd or go big with a v-8 conversion. I've taken a few pics of whats been done so far and look forward to tech info and opinions as my Desert Ranger gets more tech ops modifications to become an ultimute hunting machine

 

[jhammel85]

Welcome aboard man. Any pics?

I know that the 302 would be awesome but I did vote for the 2.8. I know its slow and it's really not that great but I like it for some reason....Frankly, I think either way would be awesome.

 

[doyouquaxu]

body lifts + desert = path to destruction. even the stock body mounts can rip the cab to pieces.

 

[4.0B2]

why not a 4.0 swap?
idk how hard it would be for a 2.8 to 4.0... maybe 302 would be easier.

 

[Mark_88]

Well, I don't know either way...but I voted for the 302...however, your questions don't really offer choices...but more questions...

Essentially, if you want to keep it as stock or using older parts then go with the 2.8...there are people on here that have them still but I don't know what it took or takes to keep them running...

The 302 would be nice if you're willing to change things, but it's a V8 and though you're going to get more power (serious power) you may want to consider something like a 2.3 turbo swap...better on gas and offers the "Gee, I can barely make it up this hill without mashing the turbo into play or downshifting into third" feeling...

Personally, I'd go with the 2.3...