Wanting to increase hp in a 86 2.9

[jkufen]

I have a B2 2.9 and I also have a parts truck a 85 ranger 2.9. I am going to start here soon on rebuilding the parts engine and the transmission and was wanting to increase its power. I am not a mechanic by any means so I am not sure what I could do to increase the hp. I am not trying to make it a hot rod but because I have the motor and trans already its cheaper for me to do this than by a 4.0 with another trans and another trans case and etc. Well any tips or advice on what I could do to it, as far as like change the cam, bore it out, headers and so on. This is going to be a long process for me so i am in no hurry to overlook anything. Thanks!

 

[Psychopete]

your 1985 Ranger should have a 2.8L. just a heads up before you start

 

[RustedRanger]

In what money you'd tie up in boring and a new cam,headers ect...you could get a 4.0 and have more power. 2.9L are "ok" motors but kinda small for a Ranger and the parts market is not big for them....so parts are more expensive....and since it has fewer cubic inches you get less of a % increase for the parts you change. Also...if it is a 2.8...even less power and more $.