New to the scene

[Sam_Ranger]

Hey guys. Im new to the ranger scene and just picked up a 5 speed single cab 2wd 2.3L. Its an ok lil truck.. I also have a GTO but i dont plan on using it much for now. the truck is an ok daily but i want more power.

i am very interested in a v8 swap (ls1/2 preferably). what is the easiest v8 swap out there? i would also be willing to do a v6 swap if that is easier.. idk what transmissions work with what so any suggestions would be awesome.

Also.. idk if this is a problem with spark flugs or fuel injectors but when i shift at lower rpms i feel a loss of power then a sudden increase.. for example 1st to 2nd at 2500 and drop about to 1500 i feel power loss and if i step on it more it doesnt really move.. but i ease up on the pedal and then it suddenly picks up power at around 2k. any ideas?

im gonna search around but any help is greatly appreciated.. and once again. hello


sam

 

[Mac]

Welcome Sam! Lots of good info and people. Better check the tech library for a lot of the swap info to get you going. Sure the V-6 is easier but just not as much fun!
Dave of the Nord

 

[Sam_Ranger]

thanx..
True story with the v8.. just there is no real write up (that i can find) for an lsx (efi) ranger.

 

[TheTopher]

Hey guys. Im new to the ranger scene and just picked up a 5 speed single cab 2wd 2.3L. Its an ok lil truck.. I also have a GTO but i dont plan on using it much for now. the truck is an ok daily but i want more power.

i am very interested in a v8 swap (ls1/2 preferably). what is the easiest v8 swap out there? i would also be willing to do a v6 swap if that is easier.. idk what transmissions work with what so any suggestions would be awesome.

Also.. idk if this is a problem with spark flugs or fuel injectors but when i shift at lower rpms i feel a loss of power then a sudden increase.. for example 1st to 2nd at 2500 and drop about to 1500 i feel power loss and if i step on it more it doesnt really move.. but i ease up on the pedal and then it suddenly picks up power at around 2k. any ideas?

im gonna search around but any help is greatly appreciated.. and once again. hello


sam

These are peppy motors. The lima (older i4s) don't pick up power 'til around 2300rpm and I think the newer duratec motors like you have are the same way. Just get used to winding it out, it won't hurt your gas mileage much.

A 5.0 would be the easiest swap but there's a few guys here who have done 350 swaps.

I'm not a big fan of Chevies because I'm stuck DDing one, but I'd actually like to see an LS1 Ranger. I say go for it.


Oh yea', and welcome to TRS!

 

[RangerBoy94]

A 4.0 V-6 bolts up to your tranny. I'd go 5.0 302 swap if your doing a V-8 swap. Theres a few write ups on it.

 

[Sam_Ranger]

which 4.0 are you talking about? the mustang 4.0?

is there a particular year model of 5.0 i should look for?

 

[TheTopher]

Generally the closer to your model year, the better. If you look in our tech library (link at the top of the page) there's a guide to V-8 swaps that covers all your options and the benefits of each.