I have a 1993 ranger XLT with a 3.0 engine. It is 2 wheel drive automatic. It has 200,000+ miles on it. First let me say I want to keep the truck and fix it. I don't think replacing the heads is the best thing to do. The bottom of engine has 200k, if I redo the top I feel I will have problem with the bottom at some point. Heads were redone before at 118k. It was burnning about 1 qt a month. Don't have $$ to buy short or long remfg block right now. Thinking best and cheapest way right now would be to buy complete used engine and replace. Question 1 is want engine sizes will fit in to this truck. Looking for best gas milage. Second, how hard is it to swap. I have the time to do myself, just have never done a swap. Looking for suggestions as to what might be best options.
ANY input is greatly appreciated!

 

If you're short on cash then a used 3.0L is the only way to go. Nothing else will bolt up. Easiest/cheapest swap would be to find one older than a '95.

Some 3.0L swap basics can be found HERE.

 

The 2.3, 3.0 and 4.0 will all fit, BUT each engine and trans combo were installed at the factory. That means each engine has different motor mounts, different exhaust system, different transmission bolt pattern, and computer and wiring harness. You could put any of them in yours, the 3.0 will be the only just bolt in, but for the others, be prepaird to change lots of stuff. I replaced the heads on my 93 3.0 at 221xxx, now its got 271xxx, still no problem.

 

so you think If I pull heads and have them done I might be ok?

 

That's like shooting in the dark, I know nothing about your engine condition.

 

Rebuilt heads would put additional combustion pressures on the lower end causing at the least, additional blowby, that's where combustion gas is forced past the rings into the engine. Blowby increases oil combustion and dilutes the oil in the pan.

On the other hand it might be cheaper than replacing the whole engine with a pull from the junkyard.

I would suggest saving for a replacement Ranger. Should be able to get one for around 2500, late 1990's model. 2wd.

 

Used Vulcans are available at pretty reasonable prices. Locally, a c-list advertiser, who seems to specialize in Rangers, will note that he has one for sale in a Ranger about to be parted, and will indicate you can come here it run before it is pulled. His ad shows mileage and vintage. His prices seem to be very reasonable.
tom