Which Explorer-Ranger year combo is best for a V8 swap?

[captaingofast]

I'm doing a `96 Explorer 2WD to `96 Splash 2WD project. I bought both vehicles based on what was available over the course of several years of monitoring vehicle ads in my general area (100 miles northeast of Detroit in Ontario). I also based it on research into how compatible the combination would be. Both are automatics with PS/PB, tilt, cruise and working AC.

Which year(s) do you guys see as being the easiest swap?

Here's what I'm using.

http://www.gofastgarage.com/whatihave.jpg

 

[Craig0320]

Best and simplest is 99-01 explorer 5.0 into 99-01 ranger 4x4.

 

[captaingofast]

I'm wondering where my 96-96 combo would fit in? 2nd best, 3rd or ?

I've been following your thread closely, which is very helpful. Keep up the good work.

 

[fastpakr]

There are some questions on your swap that I don't know the answer to. The '96-'97 Explorer will have the same basic EFI setup as you do, no PATS, etc. What I'm not sure about are things like exhaust manifold fitment on your TTB truck, motor mounts, etc.

 

[Mac]

Shouldn't be a problem with manifolds. Need the Mustang dual sump pan/pickup and the common Mustang convert mounts or similar. Fuel lines for Explorer have return, none on Ranger?
Dave

 

[fastpakr]

The '96-'97 Explorer will still have a return fuel system ('98 also, but it adds PATS which is an unnecessary complication here).

 

[bobbywalter]

get one of these style explorers for a donor....


lil fawker will haul some ass fer surez

 

[adsm08]

The issue of putting a returnless engine in a return type truck is actually pretty easy to over come.

You just need to rearrange the fuel lines a bit to accept an FG1036 fuel filter. This will turn the existing fuel system into a mechanical returnless system.