Lot of questions about V-8 swap with a backstory you probably wont read

[JD22]

So in the past few days I've been reading about the V-8 swap tech stuff from the link on the homepage. And to me it seems like the 1998 is pretty simple for the conversion. I told my mom about it but she's crazy and thinks I drive too fast as it is (I really only drive about 5 over) Anywho, she told me about a company near her work that does engine conversions for cheap. I like that idea but I wanted to take pictures of the swap, but whatever. So I guess I'll start my questions, eh?

I have a 1998 4x4 with a 4.0 with auto trans. The swap said my year doesn't have a PATS or VSS so that is a plus. It is an XLT btw, if that matters.. (driveshaft length or something)

1. Is there a problem with weight? the tech said it weighs about 100 lbs more than the 4 cyl. So i would assume it weights about 50 pounds or so more than the V6, correct me if I'm wrong.
2. I've read some other peoples posts but it didn't answer my question, is there any problems with clearance in the engine bay?
3. I read the part about the headers, but if I did this swap, would I have to spend the money on those Torque Monster headers? or is there a cheaper way? I would probably buy an exhaust kit, but I wouldn't plan on adding any other performance parts to the engine.
4. Do I need the axles/driveshaft/transmission? (I kinda figured I would need the transmission, but I'm just making sure.
5. Should I look for Exploder/Mountaineer of the same year? or use a '97? (or whatever)
6. I didn't understand the thing about the fuel system (I'm not good with engines or any type of mechanical things, lol) >No Fuel Return Line (Returnless) (56-72 psi)< Is that a problem? or something good that I wouldn't have to worry about?
7. If this actually happens, Should I just go for the whole Explorer/Mountaineer?
8. Total cost. Think I could get a used Explorer for less than $800?

Main priority in this question barrage is the headers, since it would probably be the most expensive thing. (other than the vehicle, unfortunately.)

So I think that's about it, if I think of something else I'll edit it. Sorry for making you read this whole thing.

 

[constant_projecttruck]

It sounds to me like you may be underestimating this swap. If you're not good with engines and mechanical stuff...I could see this project being a half done scrap yard donation. But...it is fun and a great learning experience. An explorer or mountaineer will need to wired into your ranger...a carbed setup will be easier electronically and for your fuel system. I would reccomend a carb swap for your first swap.

 

[RangerSVT]

An explorer or mountaineer will need to wired into your ranger...a carbed setup will be easier electronically and for your fuel system. I would reccomend a carb swap for your first swap.

Are you kidding meGoing carb would be an electrical nightmare, too many components rely on the computer. He has a 98...98+ rangers are plug and play swap...all you need is the engine harness and computer, choose a vehicle with the same style fuel system as yours...I believe 98 had PATS, so it'll be 96 or 97...
SVT

 

[JD22]

Well like I said, I would probably not end up doing the swap myself. My mom knows a guy that does engine conversions. If i tried it by myself or with my dad it would never get done. But I agree with SVT, from reading about the swap, the plug and play idea seemed great. I don't think I'm underestimating the swap itself. I just don't have the tools or space/garage to do the swap over a weekend. so when I say "it seems easy" just take that as "easy for the guy who is going to do it"

 

[constant_projecttruck]

so when I say "it seems easy" just take that as "easy for the guy who is going to do it"

Okay that makes sense. I interpreted your original post as you were contemplating doing it yourself. Sorry.

I guess it depends what you want. My swaps were both "hot rod" swaps for a factory appearance swap you guys are right.

 

[JD22]

Okay that makes sense. I interpreted your original post as you were contemplating doing it yourself. Sorry.

I guess it depends what you want. My swaps were both "hot rod" swaps for a factory appearance swap you guys are right.

No need to apologize. I just wanted to put minimal money into it. keep it simple. Although, a carb setup would make it simpler, technically.. lol

 

[351Mazda]

If you are paying someone to do it, and you want it done right, I would make a wild guess of about $4000. depending on What he will charge for labor and what you can find junkyard parts for. You are going to run into questions of weather or not you want to use old parts without rebuilding them. Little stuff will kill you. I was running a $450 dollar radiator in mine because it was the only thing big enough that would fit, and I put a tree through it. Now I run a Bronco Radiator in the bed. Driveshafts will have to be made, that could easily go 400-500 after their balanced. I'm running manifolds with my swap, their tight though. Does your truck still run now? What do you want to do with it? There's a 2wd Ranger in my garage we're converting to 4wd and putting a big block in it, and it'll probably be cheaper than just the cost of your swap. If you want something to wheel and want a v8 you might be better off getting another truck and using yours to drive to work. 98 is still fairly new to cut up like you are talking about doing. If you are having problems or yours is high miles it's a differant story.

 

[Mac]

Someone else doing about the same as you, a couple of posts down.
http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57761
If you are staying with the stock engine, most of what you have (except drive train) will work. You would not need the Torque Monster headers if the Explorer has the cast iron exhaust manifolds, if tube type, throw them away. What a lot have done is just use the complete Explorer drive train, motor, transmission and transfer case. In your case easest to use the '97' computer, wiring and sensors. Find the parts in the best condition you can afford, think even a 2000 motor will work with the '97' computer and switching the wiring/sensors - Somebody correct me please if I'm wrong AGAIN.
Dave

 

[JD22]

If you are paying someone to do it, and you want it done right, I would make a wild guess of about $4000. depending on What he will charge for labor and what you can find junkyard parts for.

I'm not sure how much he charges. I wasnt going to scavenge a junk yard till I completed my checklist. I would just go searching for a whole Exploder. My engine runs fine. I was just looking to see how much the V-8 would be to transfer, My truck has 181k miles on it. Had transmission rebuilt when I bought it. I'm not really planning on wheeling a whole bunch. only if 2 of my friends who own rangers wanted to. I just want some more power

Someone else doing about the same as you, a couple of posts down.
http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57761
If you are staying with the stock engine, most of what you have (except drive train) will work. You would not need the Torque Monster headers if the Explorer has the cast iron exhaust manifolds, if tube type, throw them away. What a lot have done is just use the complete Explorer drive train, motor, transmission and transfer case. In your case easest to use the '97' computer, wiring and sensors. Find the parts in the best condition you can afford, think even a 2000 motor will work with the '97' computer and switching the wiring/sensors - Somebody correct me please if I'm wrong AGAIN.
Dave

So I would use the Ranger or Explorer drive shaft? Thanks for the information about the headers.