lowerd ranger v8 swap questions

[Madman2021]

looking to get some info on a v8 swap with a lowered ranger. got a 1997 ford ranger single cab 4 banger short bed 2wd. rear is lowerd 5 inches front is 4 inches i think(djm lowering i beams with splash springs). will a v8 work with the truck lowered. dropping in a 1985 302 carbed mounted to a C-4 trans. would like a 8.8 or 9 inch rear axle. would the djm lowering kit i have work for the new axle? would i still be able to use my A/C system from the ranger?

 

[Teddyzee]

You will have no issues. My truck is lowered 5/8, and everything is above the framerails- Longtube headers, full exhaust, duel Flowmasters, oilpan, transmission, nothing hangs down.

You can keep the AC if you use a short front accessory system, like Explorer 5.0, '94/'95 Mustang, or similar. Otherwise, you need to move the rad forward, where your condenser currently lives.

 

[originalnitro]

The 7.5 rearend you have will work as long as you dont beat onit with slicks onit.

 

[Madman2021]

The 7.5 rearend you have will work as long as you dont beat onit with slicks onit.

i was told the 7.5 will blow up on me after wide open throttle. engine will have stock headers, underdrive pulleys, most likely mild to rough cam, and full exhaust. im a hard driver. have 2002 mustang gt wheels and 225/55/r16 performance tires on the ranger. i have access to cheap rear ends, but if the 7.5 can hold up for a little while till i get the money for the 8.8 or 9 inch then id be a happy camper. motor is a 1985 5.0 302. has all accesories still on engine. 110,000 miles.

 

[originalnitro]

I ran the original 7.5 in mine for over a year only reason i went to a 8.8 was to drag with slicks. I know several people running in the high 11s on a 7.5.

 

[Madman2021]

anyone have a link to a build thread for a 1994-1997 ford ranger 2wd 2.3 to v8 swap? this is my first attempt on swapping motors in cars. been swapping jet ski engines in standups for years. much easier.

 

[originalnitro]

Deleted, cell ported twice