So I am pretty sure my engine is dead it was overheated and I now have almost no compression in 3 cylinders. What long blocks are a direct replacemnt to go in my 97 ford ranger. The local pick a part places are $150 for a motor but they don't always have a lot of stuff or are picked through. Can I use mustang motors etc?

 

The mustang block will work but the head is different.

 

I have a line on an affordable 93 mustang engine, will it work? I would definatly want to use the cylinder head, will it cause problems with all the 97 ranger stuff?

 

I believe the bottom end will work but I am pretty sure the heads are different and will not work. The only way to be certain is to strip both engines and compare.

 

The mustang head might work, depending upon the design of the intake ports. A variety of shapes was used, and that will determine if your intake manifold will bolt up or not. If you can use the Mustang engine whole, and just connect the electrical, cooling and fuel to yours, and the hood will close, go for it.
tom

 

The mustang head might work, depending upon the design of the intake ports. A variety of shapes was used, and that will determine if your intake manifold will bolt up or not. If you can use the Mustang engine whole, and just connect the electrical, cooling and fuel to yours, and the hood will close, go for it.
There may be a post on-site that demonstrates the different styles and indicates their vintage and application. I've seen one somewhere...
tom