New to Rangers, need some advice

[Demersus]

Hi everyone. I recently bought a 1990 Ranger Super Cab with a blown 2.9L V6 & good 4-auto. Before I go with an idential 2.9L swap, I wanted to get some feedback about whether the wiring harness, computer, etc, would work as-is for either the 2.3 4-cyl or the 4.0 V6. I wanted a 4-cyl, but this one was cheap and in good overall condition other than the blown motor.

Thanks,

Demersus

 

[adsm08]

It won't work as-is for the 4-cyl. You would also need a trans for the 4-cyl.

The trans should hold against and will bolt to a 4.0. You will need the headlight harness from a 4.0 truck to swap in a 4.0 because the ignition harness is part of the headlight harness.

 

[trail B2]

I'd like to point out since your new that the 4.0 offers very similar mileage as the 2.9 and is a much better driving experience IMHO.

 

[Demersus]

Hi adsm08 & trail B2,

Thanks for the info and sorry about the noobie questions. I did do some reading in the Technical Library about the 2.9 in general and about a 4.0 swap also.

I'm having a bit of buyer's remorse so I'm leaning towards the cheapest route and buying a used 2.9 for a direct swap, especially since I don't have a shop right now and need to pay someone to do the swap.

However, I'm still curious about what it takes for a 2.3 4-cyl swap. In addition to the transmission, what other things need to be swapped? Is it about as involved as a 2.9 to 4.0 swap?

Thanks,

Demersus

 

[04sd]

To do a 4cyl swap you'll need engine, trans, under-hood wiring, computer. You also need to make sure the engine has all of the accessory brackets etc. Much easier to just drop in another 2.9. Why the desire for a 4 cylinder, I doubt gas mileage would be much better.

 

[mp3deviant721]

Mileage won't be as good as you think. That auto transmission and supercab would hold you back from getting 20+ mpg with a 4 cyl. I'd just replace the current engine or do a 4.0 swap. If you want good gas mileage with a truck, get a regular cab, 4 cyl, manual transmission, and 2wd.

 

[TheTopher]

To do a 4cyl swap you'll need engine, trans, under-hood wiring, computer. You also need to make sure the engine has all of the accessory brackets etc. Much easier to just drop in another 2.9. Why the desire for a 4 cylinder, I doubt gas mileage would be much better.

I managed 28.6mpg on my last roadtrip.

But in a heavier supercab with an auto, I think the four cylinder would be VERY underpowered for him.

 

[Demersus]

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for the advice. I'm continuing down the path to find a replacement 2.9 motor. Although I'm now also considering getting a rebuilt long block, but either way the lowest hassle will be going with the 2.9.

Now, as for interior pieces, what years will swap with a 1990 as far as headliner & seat, etc? I've heard it's from 88 to 94, but not sure of that.

Thanks,

Demersus