yalls .02 cent

[Lil-Pony]

got an 98 sidestep extended cab 3.0 standard ranger
it going to be a father son project
would like yalls input on whats the most easy and whats the best.
we decided to drop a 4.0 in it, want to know if it will just basically bolt right in.
also want to make it 4wd and lift it 6-10 inches using either the factory ttb, or a sas, or what ever else yall can think of.

 

[straycat]

You can look at tech stuff with the search function. 4.0 swaps need more then the motor... like transmission, wiring. It would be nice to just be able to drop a motor in...but....NO!!! lol

 

[Lil-Pony]

i under stand i would need new every thing we may even swap an auto in which involves the new steering colume and gauge cluster, but im just asking whats the best rout suspension wise

 

[MastuhWaffles]

This is what you should do to it.

Very practical for everyday driving and off-roading. As well as the occasional zombie killing rampage.

 

[RonD]

^^^ Hmmm...camelflage I notice the hump in the middle...........lol


You asked and this is just my opinion.
When you included the word "easiest" then I would be tempted to suggest this:

Sell the '98 ranger and buy an older one, like '94, that has extra cab, 4x4 and a 4.0l auto or manual as you wish, preferably one that has a bad motor or tranny so cheap cheap cheap.
My '94 extra cab 4x4 with 4.0l has 300k and still going strong

Then build it like you want it.
To do the 4x4 conversion you will need a donor vehicle why not just start with that and build it.
When you start swapping non-matching engines, trannys and axles you run into more problems than just sensors, buying parts for a '98 ranger will no longer be an option, lol.
You have to search for what fits between years and models, just to do a simple repair, no off the shelf look it up parts for those.

 

[Lil-Pony]

well ill pick up a rolled 4x4 4.0 same or newer year, and drop trans and transfercase in it, i just want to know front suspension wise, do a sas or get the front suspension out of the same year "98" ranger

 

[RonD]

This looks like what you need:
http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=140583

 

[Lil-Pony]

I'd hate to rip her apart, she is so beautiful. IE not wrecked. I've found one that was rolled just a stone throw from San Antonio on CL but the guy wont respond. We're doing a 4.0 swap for sure and jacking her up just debating a 4x4 swap while we are at it. Who's won't be done for at least a year, we are just beginning the planning phase.