Project 3G

[86 Lone Ranger]

last question for now... do I have to change the steering column also?

 

[win]

last question for now... do I have to change the steering column also?

Not if the doner is a pre PATS Explorer ('96 or '97).

Even on a 98 or newer, you could always just pull the PATS system out of the Explorer and bury an original Explorer PATS key with the receiver and keep your original column unmolested.

 

[stateranger]

I can tell you're not speaking from experience on this. With this setup i can have this engine running in a riding lawnmower with only 5 wires from one plug hooked up the mustang has muliple plugs, a wider and longer FEAD, and half the amperage output of the alternator (65A vs 130A)...

SVT

I didn't rethink my post last night. Obd2 is a much better system to work with. Obd 2 also has less emissions equipment. You have to meet the inspection and emissions requirements for the 96+ 5.0 explorer to get your swap approved. This may be the biggest obstacle the O. P. faces.

 

[RangerSVT]

We all make mistakes. You said "to switch to OBD2 it would require a complete rewire". With this setup (96-97 explorer 5.0) the engine and trans harness is designed as a standalone unit. It will run and drive on only 8 wires from the 42 pin plug, 3 are grounds, two are ignition power, one constant power, one fuel pump relay and one fuel pump on signal, thats it. Thats only 5 connections for this engine and trans to be running in anything. I've done this rangers, bronco2's, sport tracs, even jeeps. I was going to put this in a lawnmower just to show how easy it could be done.
Now for the OP's case, it doesn't matter what setup is used, OBD1 or OBD2, a rewire will be needed as there are emissions devices that need to be in place for his application. The explorer setup, while complex, is also the most advanced, and smallest most compact FEAD available. Space is at a minimum in the 1st gen trucks. Aftermarket headers are recommended, a body lift is recommeded. Can it be done without one? Yes, it can, and I've done it. But its a challenge. My choice would still be the explorer, for the superior ignition and OBD2.....
SVT

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

Thank each and everyone of you guys for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience with me.... I showed my son your guys responses and he was touched that complete strangers would even bother to help (his alergies kicked in, too much dust in the air he said...lol ) My next step is to hunt for a 96-97 Explorer.. will look into the ones I posted.... I'll keep you guys posted when I find one..... thanks again for your in put..... btw My brother in law thinks I'm crazy.....

 

[RangerSVT]

Yeah, I'm called crazy by everyone for the things i do. Check out craigslist, you can usually find deals there...

SVT

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

where can I find the 88 build you.refered to?

 

[RangerSVT]

http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=147302&page=2

My work starts at post #76...

SVT

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

Thanks..... New question....? Is it worth sandblasting and reprinting the frame.?

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

can i use a 96 explorer 4x4 for my swap?

 

[RangerSVT]

Yes, and yes...

SVT

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

ok ...SCORED!!!! 97 EXP running 302 w/3.73 body shot to hell.. $300.... where do i start... tearing apart the donor veh first or the 86?

 

[Stangman92]

ok ...SCORED!!!! 97 EXP running 302 w/3.73 body shot to hell.. $300.... where do i start... tearing apart the donor veh first or the 86?

Way to go! Start by documenting the build with a ton of pics, lol. I'd start by making sure you have everything you need. Then tear down the explorer. Seriously though, pics, part numbers, everything. You never know how much these type of threads help people out.

 

[win]

ok ...SCORED!!!! 97 EXP running 302 w/3.73 body shot to hell.. $300.... where do i start... tearing apart the donor veh first or the 86?

Perfect doner and a great price too!

 

[86 Lone Ranger]

Here we go : )

Alright .... here we go ........ After reading your suggestions I thought it would be cool to document everything and put a video together entitled "2.3 to 5.0 swap for dummies" mainly cause I'm a big dummy... any case my son and I finished stripping down the 97 to part it out... with the thought of making my money back (like suggested by someone here) .... which is now officially $272.19 due to the fact that dummy left a ten dollar bill under the seat and almost 18 bucks in change scattered all over the place!