I'm new here and I need help. I have recently obtained an 88 Ranger, 2wd, 5speed w/overdrive, 4cyl engine. It is in driveable condition but needs work. I started to work on the interior by pulling apart the dash as described in my Hanes manual. This was done to change out blown dash lights and install a new radio. In the process of doing this I noticed that some of the wireing harnesses have been replaced with 89 or later units. There is still the old 88 fuse and main wire harness bundle under the dash. Will this cause problems? It has already caused me to have to hardwire the new radio in. I wish to put a amp and speaker system in. As well as some interior neon lighting, Power windows and locks, but I don't know where to start with the under dash wireing in it's present condition. Will I also need a second Alternator to power the extra equipment? This leads to the engine problems. I want to upgrade the engine in the future, but for the time being I will stay with the 4cyl it has. It is rebuilt and has a new Alternator and battery. I need to replace the hoses and belts and want to install both power steering and A/C. Right now I have No PS and NO A/C just air and heat. I want to put a 6cyl engine in the truck, but want to know if it is possible to put an 8cyl engine in an 88 Ranger. Is there an 8cyl engine by Ford or another manufacturer that is small enuff yet still has power that will fit? Will I have to change out Transmissions when I change engines? Right now the only problem with the Transmission is the shifter is excessibly loose in any gear to the point it feels like your in neutral when your in any gear includeing reverse. How do I fix this as my Hanes manual really doesn't cover the Transmission at all. It says Trans work is too complex for self repair take to dealer or trans repair shop.

There you have it. All my current problems. I thank anyone who replies with answers in advance.

Telknor

 

Would it not be better to part out what you bought and buy a Ranger with all the glitzy options you want?

Unless I am reading wrong, you already have stumbled upon a mismatched wiring harness and the truck you've got isn't in that great of shape anyway....


To put a v6 in, you'd need a donor in good shape....to put a v8 in, you'd need to drop the drivetrain you've got.

Get what you really want to start with and go from there and part this one out. The v8 in anything earlier than a 98-01 4x4 is a good bit of sweat so save even more sweat on this problem.