What do you think of the 4.0L or should I stick with the 2.3L?

[KrAzy KoOl MaN]

I am looking for a Ford Ranger.
I was looking for 2.3L, but I have a chance to get a 91 4.0L 2wd. extended cab for a good price. I was thinking about getting a 2.3L, but I did my research and it sounds like it is just as reliable. Right?
I heard the problem about the auto transmission, but this is a stick
I know the 2.9L has cracked heads and the 2.8L has computer problems, and so on...
My gas mileage just suffer a little, but I get much more power

I have not gone to look at it yet. What should I look for?

How many miles do you think it would go it I maintain it properly and hope the other person did to?

Are you happy with your 4.0L...

I just need a good little truck that can take a little beating....

 

[KELLY88]

4.0s are great motors if you take care of them. What's the mileage on the one for sale? Most of these motors can easily go 200k miles or more without any major work. If it runs well, doesn't burn oil or leak coolant then I'd say go for it. You'll be happy with the extra power.

 

[KrAzy KoOl MaN]

are they easy to work on...

 

[fastpakr]

Both are decent motors. Is the 4.0 an OHV (pushrod) or OHC engine? The later pushrod engines were extremely reliable. The 2.3's were great across the board. Except for the OHC 4.0, none are difficult to work on.

Just decide whether you want fuel economy or power. I don't need the power, so I have a 2.3 Ranger, but with the extra weight of the Explorer it is nice to have the 4.0 there. Both engines are more than adequate for day to day tasks.

 

[KELLY88]

The 4.0 is from '91 so it's an OHV. The SOHC design didn't come out til around 2000 I think.

 

[fastpakr]

The 4.0 is from '91 so it's an OHV. The SOHC design didn't come out til around 2000 I think.

Good catch. I completely missed the year in the original post.

 

[KrAzy KoOl MaN]

sssoo.. the OHV is a good motor?

 

[fastpakr]

Yep, they both are. Evaluate your needs. If you're towing quite a bit, I'd grab the 4.0. If you're using the bed to haul around 1000-1500 pounds or towing 2500 or less, I'd seriously consider the 2.3.