V8 swap for 2000 XLT 3.0l

sub_junkie · #1 03-28-2014, 11:48 PM

I'm looking to do a swap on my 2000 XLT 3.0l 2wd, auto trans. Everything is stock for now but it's a project truck.

What year 5.0 block do I need to get for this? I'm looking to get a bare block and build it ground up over time and drop it in whenever possible.

Also, what all would I need to get to go along with the 5.0?

IDM · #2 03-29-2014, 12:12 AM

You need to do some research first.

sub_junkie · #3 03-29-2014, 01:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IDM

You need to do some research first.

I've been searching through multiple forums and every hit on google I can find about the 5.0 swap but nothing has pointed to what year block I should/can use. I'm all for research, do you have specific links I can read up on? I've read a lot of v8 swaps, how to's, and anything else I can find, I just haven't found anything for my year doing a 5.0 swap.

BeauJCope · #4 03-29-2014, 01:38 AM

Here is all the information you will really need to know.
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...er_ranger.html

win · #5 03-29-2014, 04:43 AM

As previously noted, there's a TON of info out there:

Quote:

Originally Posted by win

Having a complete Explorer/Mountaineer on hand is really handy, try to find a crashed but still complete, they're CHEAP!

A few major differences/needs:

Get a Ford EVTM for both your Ranger and the doner Explorer/Mountaineer -- probably the ONLY way to wade through the wiring differences. Multi year/vehicle OEM Ford DVD's are available on-line very inexpensively.

Depending on years:

Fuel pressures/pressure regulator locations -- high pressure/return at fuel filter/regulator in tank or lower pressure/return & regulator on fuel rail.

PATS types (or lack of) -- Gotta have the complete PATS system from the doner. You're likely looking at a tow to a Ford dealer or well equipped indy to program the keys into the system. If you get lucky enough to get two keys with the Explorer, you can program new keys in yourself for very very small money else keys, towing and programing can get expensive.

The PATS system can be defeated with a custom tune/tweak of the PCM -- again, can get expensive.

Speed sensor -- Three types, Transmission driven VSS generator, ABS calc'd speed from rear axle sensor, PCM calc'd speed from transmission sensor.

With a 2000 Ranger, a 1999/2001 Explorer solves most differences!

The coil spring Rangers need custom engine mounting plates -- Check with Strada over at RPS or there are diagrams on-line to make your own or have made.

High pressure power steering hose must be custom made using the original Ranger rack end with the Explorer pump end.

Exhaust manifolds/headers are an issue: The early Explorer tubular manifolds don't flow all that well and are known to crack, the later cast ones are an improvement. Torque Monster headers from Al's Headers are probably the only direct fit option, spotty availability. Only a few "generic" reportedly fit, all with fitment issues somewhere.

http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...er_ranger.html

http://www.rangerpowersports.com/for...p-Wiring-Guide!!!!

win · #6 03-29-2014, 05:01 AM

As far as which block to use, it really does not matter. The original 221 ci from 1962 is so similar to the last of the 302's from 2001 that it'll bolt in anywhere the 302 would fit.

Still, far and away, stick with as much late 5.0 Explorer/Mountaineer as you can. Space between the block and radiator is really limited, Ford's very compact solution for the alt, wp, fan, a/c, ps and belt drive solves all sorts of issues.

sub_junkie · #7 03-29-2014, 06:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by win

As far as which block to use, it really does not matter. The original 221 ci from 1962 is so similar to the last of the 302's from 2001 that it'll bolt in anywhere the 302 would fit.

Still, far and away, stick with as much late 5.0 Explorer/Mountaineer as you can. Space between the block and radiator is really limited, Ford's very compact solution for the alt, wp, fan, a/c, ps and belt drive solves all sorts of issues.

So you wouldn't recommend a 5.0 mustang block? That's what I'm trying to figure out as well, that and would 5.0 "mustang" internals work in the explorer/mountaineer ?

IDM · #8 03-29-2014, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sub_junkie

So you wouldn't recommend a 5.0 mustang block? That's what I'm trying to figure out as well, that and would 5.0 "mustang" internals work in the explorer/mountaineer ?

If it's got the HO forged pistons, that's really the only difference between the Mustang/Expo block. Pistons and the heads. You'll get GT40/GT40P heads for an Expo or E7/GT40 heads if it's a Mustang. GT40s if it's a 93 to 95 Cobra. The forged HO pistons will last longer than the block itself when power is added.

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I have a 98 Explorer block with GT40 F3ZE Cobra heads on my truck.

Rangey · #9 04-22-2014, 10:24 AM

Is any of this possible on a 2wd ranger?

IDM · #10 04-22-2014, 10:51 AM

Yes. You can run a 2wd AOD, C4, C6, T-5, pretty much any 2wd trans and an Explorer that doesn't have PATS if you want to run EFI.

win · #11 04-23-2014, 03:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rangey

Is any of this possible on a 2wd ranger?

Absolutely! Depending on which 2WD Ranger, the specifics change on how the engine mounts but there are a ton of 2WD V8 Rangers on the road.

Rangey · #12 04-23-2014, 09:04 AM

I have a 2002 xlt 2.3 but wanna throw a 5.0 in when my motor goes to shit

IDM · #13 04-23-2014, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by win

Absolutely! Depending on which 2WD Ranger, the specifics change on how the engine mounts but there are a ton of 2WD V8 Rangers on the road.

Like mine..

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Do your research. There is no step by step guide on how to do it.