Model and trim specific curb weight (93-97)

[wtn4x4]

I have my old 2.3 manual transmission regular cab 4x4 and I plan on having a family soon (no bun in the oven though). The bench works for a car seat for our niece, but I don't have enough power to go fast enough for my needs and I can't tow with it or have enough power to max out my suspension high speed offroading (James duff skyjacker hybrid). I have axles 4.56 and lockers underneath.

I really like how the truck behaves with the current weight and distribution, but I want more power and possibly more space. I originally picked up the 2.3 manual to put in a turbo (SVO or turbo coupe swap), but paired with the manual transmission I just don't really want to destroy gearbox after gear box. Highspeed whoops and shifting frequently doesn't work. Also, 2.3 mileage with the mods is about 17mpg with 33x10.5 km2 my prior 33x9.5 km1 was 20mpg. I think with the additional weight and strain the large motor may be more fuel efficient proportionally to the power.

I guess the best way to answer this is what is the weight for:

(93-97) Regular cab vs. supercab
Power package vs. manual everything
Manual transmission vs. auto
2.3 vs. 3.0 vs. 4.0

I read somewhere that the 2.3 is actually not that light of a motor and the 3.0 and 4.0 are almost the same weight as the 2.3

I really like the trail capability of a regular cab and the lightness for the types of whoops I run, but the super cab would increase highspeed stability and the convenience of not having whatever I am packing getting wet or blowing away.

Some help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Captain Ledd]

The old Lima 2.3L is a heavy beast. Nearly all cast iron except for the intake. Internet rumors put it at around 440lbs, give or take.

I have had my 1997 2.3L/manual 2wd std cab/short bed on the scales before. With me in it (roughly 170lbs) and 3/4 tank of gas it clocked in at literally a hair over 3,000lbs (like 3,012 or something). This is the only hard fact I can attest to.

I don't think power package vs. manual everything is going to do much. The others would.

I thought there was a thread a while back somewhere on "Ranger Weights", not sure which forum is was in though.

 

[wtn4x4]

The search function on this site is not working so I can't find the info.

Would you recommend just swapping the manifold and wiring the ecu for the turbo or swapping to a 4.0 ranger.