Just bought my first Ford!

[country0001]

Yeah, the 2.8 and 2.9 are great engines. My statement was meant to be more mathematical.

The 2.8 and 2.9 can get some crazy torque if you work the clutch right. I've seen mine do stuff no one thought it could.

The only reason that I prefer the 4.0 is that it gives you the option to go to OBDII if you want. Better diag capabilities, and better spark control.

The only real drawbacks to the 2.9 are the TFI module and the head problems.

THe only draw back to the 2.8 is the carb.

+1. My 2.9 was wrapped up to 5000 when I was trying to get up my driveway during the ice storm (4wd was not kicking in, trying to blow motor so I have an excuse to change over sooner) Thing is that motor is still kicking. Hate the annoying tick, makes it seem like a POS when its not. I've pulled trailers w it having a mid sized tractor on it. Plus the leaking head, not sure where that water is going. As will was quoted the 4.0 is the performance upgrade to the 2.9

 

[fordman2121]

my performance upgrad to the 2.9 is the 2.3 turbo thats in the works, of coarse the trans had to be swapped out also so it is more involved

 

[r1hatman]

Looks like a good ride Just take your time and have fun with it! Do something original and post lots of pics.

 

[trail B2]

I love my 4.0 but you don't need one to have fun but consider one if you go putting money in your 2.8.What I wanted to bring up was Jim Oaks who's the administrator and Allen D who's very knowledgeable keep hammering to us is it's in the buy, comb the junk yards spend time here on the sight craigs list.Really think about what you want and how to get it cheaply.

 

[fricknbronco]

Great advice! Thanks! Been talking with my dad and he's all for the 4.0L swap, so now it's only a matter of finding that older Explorer. Once we find a good engine the plan is to paint the engine bay black, and paint the exterior black with silver (or tan) to keep the two tone look. I've been convinced to go with a suspension lift so I'm stoked to get working on that.

Country- this motor sounds horrible with its ticking, it's fun but kind of scary when pulling out into traffic and it takes a couple blocks to get up to 35mph... lol.

I found the problem with the window not rolling up or down. The regulator isn't broken, it's the actual plastic molding that holds the window to the regulator arm that's snapped in half. Does anyone know where I can find just that molding? I've googled, ebayed, done all I can to find it and was wondering if that's happened to anyone else on here?

 

[country0001]

U'll be happy w the 4.0, its a strong engine. Try to get a 4wd explorer so u can swap in the D35 front end. Also try to get a manual t case. the push button one is a PITA