Vulcan transplant

[Johnbuckeyestarr]

HI guys, I'm new to the forum and looking for some info.

I have a 91 ranger with a 3.0 and looking to swap in another 3.0. My question is, what are the differences between the 3.0 motors from gen 1 to gen 3? I know they updated it in 91 and changed the ignition in 97 is there any reason I can't put a gen 2 or gen 3 in there? What issues can I expect if I pull one out of something other than a ranger? Is one doner better than another?

Thanks

 

[RonD]

Have a read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/3_0-build.shtml

If you just use the block and heads then you can use any year 3.0l Vulcan, including Taurus or Sable 3.0ls

 

[fixizin]

No first-hand expertise in the matter, but it's been widely bandied about on these here forums that the Flex-Fuel (E85) engines have the most desirable cylinder heads (higher compression)...

... these Rangers will have a 'V' in the 8th digit of the VIN, instead of a 'U'

 

[adsm08]

It's true that there are some minor differences in the heads of the FF version, to make the alcohol burn better, but using one shouldn't cause you any trouble.

Also keep in mind that if you get one from a FWD vehicle you need to change the head gaskets before putting it in your Ranger.

 

[Andrew2910]

I did it. I burnt up my 93 Ranger's original engine (#2 cylinder hole in exhaust valve) I started looking for a replacement engine on CL and found a 99 Ranger for sale it was half the truck for $400 but it was the half I needed. It came with the 3.0 flex fuel and the auto trans was still there. I used all the electronics and wiring from my 93 engine, took out the cam sensor and replaced it with my distributor. The only thing I can say could be an issue is the 99 doesn't have a regular timing pointer (it has a crank sensor instead) It didn't bother me I just timed it right at the crankshaft sensor. Been running like this over 6 months now no problems. Good luck to you