I am looking at a 88 ranger with V-6 5 sp as a donor truck to replace a inline 6 in my old 62.

how is the v-6/5 sp combination or should I keep looking for a better donor?

Thanks

 

I guess it could be done, but that year V6 would be a 2.9 and injected, wouldn't have much lugging power. If you want a V6, and one that's injected get a 332. But a carbed 300 inline would make a much better change over engine.

 

and in my experience, 2 nd gear has issues with bent shift rods/forks/adjustments

 

Look for something else.

 

There's no way I would replace the inline with that series of V6. 2.8/2.9 is less than 183 cubic inches. You'd be better off with a Maverick 200 six if you want to go small. I think rangergirl has the right idea. Get a LARGE six. A lot closer in fit and performance to what's in there. Is the old engine worn out or is there another reason to replace it? It was a pretty good engine so you must have a reason to kick it to the side of the road...
tom

 

Personally, I would rebuild the stock 223. Runs forever and a simple engine. If you want better gas mileage, go with a carbureted 300 with a truck 5 speed.

If you want more speed go with almost any carbureted Ford V-8, most will fit and still give you room to crawl under the hood and work on it.

To make this perfectly clear, there is no way I would go with a 2.9 or any of the weak transmissions that came behind them in a full sized pickup.

Robert