I am interested in putting a 302 in my truck. I am hoping that one of you guys who has done this before could give me an idea (or a list) of everything involved. Obviously I need an engine to start. And of course there will be a tranny and mounts for both. What did you pay? Were you able to find an engine from a mustang? Or did you get it from an explorer?

Once I get the wife a new SUV, I plan to do this.

Appreciate all the help.
Murph

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02 EDGE; 3 liter V-6; Homemade Bucket Seats; Explorer Center Console; 120,000 + miles

"I once was obsessed with a clean windshield, now I just pray for rain."

There is alot involved in swapping a V-8 into a ranger. There are many different routes you can take. I suggest doing tons of research on this before attempting it.

A V8 swap for a ranger is alot of work... and most of the aftermarket kits are for older ones with twin I-beams, but It fits well. First I would say take a look under the hood of a 96-01 explorer 5.0, that'll give you an idea of room. I'm not positive, but I think the SUV headers(or manifolds on 00-01) fit the truck. The steering box is an issue(even if its a Rack) and either a short filter(FL300) or an adapter is required. Explorer engines have good heads, and making the PCM and harness fit is a few weeks of work, but sometimes are hard to find. However if you plan on using a manual trans, the explorer PCM needs tricked, or reprogramed, and its sensitive to changes(headers, throttle body, and so on). Carburated systems are the cheap alternative, but mileage and reliability suffer. Holley makes several EFI systems that will work for you, but to the tune of $1200-2000!! Your driveshaft may need to be shortened or replaced with a stronger unit and if its a 7.5 rear, say farewell to that chunk of crap. Also lets not forget fuel, over 300-350 wont be supported by the stock pump. I;m not sure on HI flow for a ranger tank, so that may be an issue.

If you aint scared to rip you truck to pieces and have it down for a while, go for it. Just remember, everything you alter affects something else...

I may use a MarkVIII 4.6 DOHC motor in my 92, or a big block!! but then again I'm installing a turbo ready gt40 5.0 in an Aerostar!!
PM me if you'd like some more V8 swap tips.

I've done 350 SBC's in S10 dimers and have a pretty good insight about what's involved. There are several routes you can go. But you really didn't give us any info about your truck. What year is it? what size engine does it have etc.? the best way I know you can do this and this is the easiest and cheapest route, is buy any ranger from 1999 to 2001 and also buy any V8 ford explorer from these same years listed above (PLEASE MAKE SURE THEY'RE THE SAME YEAR) and it becomes a plug and play deal. Estimated cost: ALOT, time involved: 10 to 12 hours with the proper tools.

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2004 Ford Ranger Edge
Any engine info or other mods is need to know and you don't.


http://davidsonmotorsports.blogspot.com/

EDIT: Never mind, I just realized how old this thread was.

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Ursus - 2009 Ford Ranger FX4
BedRug, BakFlip HD, Pop&Lock PL8200 tailgate lock, Sportz tent