V8 conversion questions

[Rangerdang101]

Im looking to do a v8 conversion on my 2001 ford ranger edge with 4x4 and the 4.0 engine

My first question is about the donor vehicle I know ford explorers are a good donor vehicles but what year of explorers will work for my truck?

Second if I get an explorer with AWD can the transfer case from the ranger bolt to the trans from the explorer or can I use the transmission from the ranger these are the two main things I am confused on but any othet tips and helpfull things would be awesome

 

[RonD]

1996 to 2001 Explorers had the 5.0l OHV engines that are only 19" wide so fit in Ranger engine bay

No, Ranger transmission and transfer case can not be used, transmission won't bolt to V8 engine
Transfer case can not handle the V8 power although you can find adapters to make them work, up to you

If you want a manual transmission then 1997 to 2003 M5R2 5-speed from an F150 with 4.2l V6 and 4WD will work, get transfer case with it
The 4.2l V6 has same bolt pattern as 5.0l OHV, and M5R2 shifter is in the same place as Ranger's M5R1 in those years

The transfer case to use would be BW4406, your current shift motor will bolt to it and can be operated same as your does now
It bolts to the V8 4WD automatic trans in place of the AWD transfer case

Heads up, 2WD transmissions are different that 4WD transmissions, no conversion is possible, without total rebuild for autos and partial rebuild for manuals

Bookmark this page: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index.shtml

Look in Engine section for info on V8 swaps, that will answer most questions