new to ranger station question on 98 3.0

[sdnative]

I am new to the forum and just bought a used 98 Ranger 2WD with a 3.0. I have a problem in that one of the cylinders did the "melt down dance" and I need to overhaul or replace the engine. the overhaul would require extensive machine work, but no on seems to have a definitive answer on what 3.0 engines will really work in this to buy one at a salvage yard. it seems that this year has so many varibles that salvage yards don't seem to know what will work and what won't. It is a non-flex fuel engine. Thanks!

 

[Original_Ranger84]

So any non flex fuel 3.0L should work. 95+ ford ranger or taurus motors should work, Maybe more?

If you get a motor from a front wheel drive car the head gaskets are different but you can just swap them out and should be good to go.

 

[James86]

I have a friend with a 1998 and I know what you mean. He has a <97 style front hub assembly (threw him for a loop when he did brakes), a 99 looking engine compartment, but a bastard fuel system, whereas it was easier to convert it to a 99 style fuel rail because they couldn't find the correct fuel pressure regulator ANYWHERE. The engine blocks themselves shouldn't be too much of an issue, but you'll likely need to use your top end to make it work. Good luck.