Working on an 83 ranger 4x4 with a dead 2.8 carbed. I can get an 87 2.9 fuelie with 5spd for next to nothing. Can I swap the intake on the 2.9 and be Ca smoggable?

 

No go, check post 3:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/3...n-it-work.html

My search repeatedly found the same results in other threads and forums. The valve arrangement is different, so your exhaust cam lobe would be on an intake valve, if it lined up at all.

You could bring the entire 2.9 with EFI etc over. Harness, computer, the works. Quite a project imo.

 

I would have to say that if the 2.9L is a runner then it will be a big improvement over the 2.8L. I had a Ranger with the 2.9L and loved it!
I have driven a few 2.8L carb V6's in other lighter cars and they were ok but fuel economy was poor. I could get mid to high 20's with my Ranger 2WD 5sp with 3.73 rear.