I did the compression test today on my 2.3L 92 ranger. 360,000KM
180 - 60 - 60 - 90

So... I have to start looking at options. I have looked at the forums and have figured that I can get buy with a top end rebuild. I don't want more HP/forged internals/turbo.

The body & frame are in decent enough shape that this is worth while.

So a few questions:
1. what 4cylinder engines can I drag and drop (relatively easy) into my 1992 ranger ext cab?

2. how hard is a top end rebuild? (1-10) 1 being oil change.
I have changed my intake manifold on my dodge dakota and done the valve cover gasket on my ranger as reference points.

3. Any ADVICE, TIPS, WARNINGS?

you can use a engine from a 88-94 ranger or mustang and just change some external parts.Not to bad to rebuild the head,probably a 6.I would probably get a rebuilt head or a well known used one.You might find when you get it apart,that it is just a blown headgasket.take a good look between the valves for cracks

Thanks 4B. That's a pretty good selection to choose from.

If it was a blown head gasket, wouldn't I be getting coolant in my oil?

I called my local engine rebuilding shop and they quoted 2-3k for the whole engine rebuild. (depending on wear and tear)

You don't necessary have to get water in the oil,if it blew out without hitting a passage,you wouldn't get it.Did you check with carqest,napa etc on getting a long block?sometimes they aren't too bad.i,d buy another engine from a local yard and put it in while rebuilding the other.Pull the head first

Rebuilding these 4 cylinder ranger engines can't be to bad, right?

A couple months I completely rebuilt a 1986 VW Golf 4 cylinder engine with the help of a friend. One of the original pistons melted so we put new ones in. Thing was rusty as hell too. Hardest part was getting it timed and to turn over the first time. Still runs great on race day (it's dirt track race car).

Imagine that a ford should be less complicated to do. (That being said the VW was a new learning experience, slowly getting better with cars)

__________________
2000 Ranger 2wd Reg Cab 2.5l Automatic
2002 Mustang V6 Auto

What's your budget? You can get a professionally rebuilt one with warranty for $1,300-$1,600. With a 7 year warranty. Whole motor, not just a head

http://www.rebuilt-auto-engines.com/...11113203885.49

AmericanPride, how can that be so damn cheap?!

On a good note, I fixed my issue and you might not even believe how.

My guy at a scrap yard said that these fords were notorious for carbon build up. He said to warm up the engine, rev it to 4000 and spray/mist water into the throttle body. To which I said, "ARE YOU HIGH?!". He insisted and he never steered me wrong.

So I did it and WHAMO!!!

180 PSI on all cylinders now.

I'll be a monky's uncle.

Yes,easy to get carbon buildup now days.Spraying a mist in the carb should be part of your yearly maintenance program.seafoam works as well.You must of had quite a bit of carbon to hold a valve open.If you rebuilt a Golf than the Lima will be a piece of cake,a lot simpler