need a question answered

[The Man]

I have a 84 Ranger 2wd with a blown 2.0I-4 The transmission is a standered 4 spd.

What I would like to do is replace with a 2.8 V-6.

I dont want to convert to fuel injection as my truck is set up for a carburated engine.

If I change my 2.0 to a V-6 would it bolt to my bell houseing or would I need to change it?

Thanks

 

[kimcrwbr1]

I dont imagine the conversion would be that difficult with the durasparked 2.8. I`m sure someone here has all the info you need but a 5 speed would enhance your conversion. Just look for a donor vehicle at the bone yards or ask here.

 

[dangerranger83]

Well you will need to change the bellhousing and clutch. If you get a clutch out of an 85 like i did, you will have to mod a few things. the 83-84 have external clutches and the throwout bearing rides on a shaft. in 85 they wenjt to internal slaves and the shaft was taken out. What I ended up doing was cutting the shaft off and then I was able to use the internal set-up. I did this swap but was a 2.3 instead of a 2.0. My tranny is also a 4 speed. Easiest thing to do is to is get the tranny with the engine. You will also have to drill a hole in your engine cross member for the 2.8 driverside motor mount to fit.

 

[Hotrodlincoln]

Probably not that hard. I have a v6 internal slave bellhousing from my 85 if you want it. Have the slave/tob too but you probably want to buy new of those. And I think the hydraulic line was OK too. I'll have to check.

I wonder if the front bearing plate from an FM145 would fit a TK4? I'll have to check on that too.

Durasparked 2.8 would be an easy swap. No computer BS to worry about. And you already have the right duraspark module (I think). Might have to extend the wire harness a bit to reach the distributor. Other than that, hook up the starter, and the temp sensor, and oil pressure sensor if you have it. (both are one wire, should be able to just plug in your existing wires)

 

[kimcrwbr1]

Alternator should be the same also just two wires.

 

[strvger]

my truck came with a 2.8 and 4 speed tranny. not sure if the 4 speed would mount up any easier than the 5 speed, but they did come with both. mine is an '83 and i did swap it to a 5 speed just for the od 5th gear as i do lots of freeway cruising. really helps on the highway for sure.
one thing to consider if you go 5 speed, you will probably want to re-gear. if yours has the 3.45 or even worse, 3.08, you will never get to use your 5th gear. just not enough power. 3.73 gears may be ok if you stick with stock tire sizes, anything larger and you'll be wanting 4.10's for any kind of performance either around town or cruising at freeway speeds.
just my $.02.

 

[The Man]

Thanks for all of the help and advice I am gona start looking for a V-6 to drop in it I need to get this running by next summer. If anyone has an engine that they would be willing to let go of and your close to Kentucky let me know

 

[kimcrwbr1]

Thats the way to do it I got mine from the bone yard. It had wire all melted to the top of it and runs great. I figure with the fire the engine shut down quick not like a WOT shut down. I wish I had put a oil pump in while It was out so make sure and put all new gaskets and seals in before you put it together unless you know the engine is good. It took three times to get a good engine the first one looked new with the valve covers off got it running and it had a loud knock, bad connecting rod. The second one I put in would not turn over my bad for not checking first. The third one had wires all melted across the top of it when the yrad delivered it to me I was pissed but desparate so I put it in and still running it. I recommend new oil pump, valve guide seals, main seals and gaskets before you put it in. Hopefully someone here has one for you thats in good shape, With the five speed tranny would be a plus.