Which year is a better plateform for a V8 swap?

[PhdNPrerunners]

Sorry if this has been answered a lot but I am just wondering what year is the best for a V8 swap? I currently have a 96 but it seems like the many are doing V8 swaps to the ibeam trucks. Thanks

 

[bilzy7]

At least with yours you got springs... To just get stiffer ones when you got a heavier engine. I know 95 ext cabs they say you don't have to mod the heater box. Other then that idk.

 

[bilzy7]

Wish I had a 97 lol. I got the in-between years with 4 lights for each side on front and 3 in rear...

 

[Tominator]

1996 Ranger XLT Ext Cab 4.0 V6 Auto with 78k miles.

Perfect candidate!

 

[Teddyzee]

Exactly, the '96 is perfect.

 

[PhdNPrerunners]

Thanks guys! I will start looking for more info on this swap for my 96. I found a 98 explorer with a 5.0 for the swap but from what I read I need to get a 96-97 because of the PATS system. Also I am trying to find a tuner who can flash the computer for a t5

 

[AgPete139]

Dude, you have my exact truck (but 1 year older) from a few years back.

White xcab, 4.0 auto with open 3.08. Justin, when you get ready to do that swap, come find me. Also, I may want your motor...dunno yet.

We still on for the gauge cluster swap this weekend?