Thermostat housing difference

[Bondo]

Was wondering the difference in the thermo housing through the years of the 4.0. I have a 2000 XLT with a slight coolant leak at the housing, but all the ones I find online say they don't fit. Don't see why the one from my 2006 would be different, but I don't know.

Any info as to what style a 2000 4.0 Ranger calls for? Trying not to run to the parts store a bunch of times returning the wrong parts, or worse buying the wrong one online and getting nothing fixed for days

 

[RonD]

1990-2000 Rangers used the 4.0l OHV engines
2001-2011 Rangers used the 4.0l SOHC engines
So different engines and different parts

4.0l OHV used a metal thermostat housing bolted to the front of the lower intake, just above water pump, follow the upper radiator hose, it clamps to that housing

4.0l SOHC used a plastic thermostat housing on the top side of the engine toward the front under upper intake

 

[Bondo]

Ok that makes sense, that's for the info.

Guess I will look for the metal housing

 

[holyford86]

Ok that makes sense, that's for the info.

Guess I will look for the metal housing

To build on the info provided, there are two different outlet diameters depending on year, they're different enough you can easily tell with a tape measure.

 

[Bondo]

Ok thanks