Hey,

I had a thread few days back on my 2.9 buring antifreeze. well, around my area to have a new head gasket put in would cost me $800+. It would be cheaper to get a used engine at a junkyard. What would i be required to do, if i were to swap out my 2.9, to say a (95-00) 3.0 or 4.0 engine?

89 ranger 5-speed 2.9l 4x4

 

I have a 2.9 in my 88 4x4 and am in the process of swappin in a 351...
to stay efi..you'll need a new computer and engine loom..I think the tranny wont work with the 4.0 either..you'd have to swap that out too. If I remember right the mounts and clearances will work as is...
check out the FTE ranger boards...
they have a ton of info on the 4.0 swap or down to a 2.3
A friend of mine swapped in a 2.3 turbo from a t-bird.
that was a good swap..
once that turbo gets wound up..much power..
not a good one for 4 wheelin ...you never get anough boost to do any good.
an engine swap for a blown head gasket seems excessive...there's lots to consider doing a swap

If money's the issue..put the new head gaskets in yourself... a whole gasket kit for the engine will cost you about 60$, much cheaper...dont get intimidated by engine work..just stick to the specks in a manual..haynes or chiltons...ask lots of questions.
head gaskets are much less work than an engine swap.

 

thanks for the info. i would do it myself, but I really don't have time and really need the truck to get to work. chances are i will try coolant sealer, and if it doesn't work i'll sell the truck. it runs fine, it's just that it will not pass inspection in NJ, and having to paysomeone off every 2 years is expensive.