Hey Guys,

I've heard about people putting 302's in Ranger's, and even 351's, but what are the odds of getting a 400 in to a Ranger? I have an 85 that has a 2.8 in it with about 210K on it. The motor is super weak and all this truck is going to be used for is an off road toy. My roommates brother has a 73 Galaxy that's beat to death and the body is junk, so I can get the 400 motor from him for cheap. Anybody have any input on my idea? Is it even worth going after?

Thanks,
Terry

 

I would pick a 289 over a 400.

 

The 400 is a D block,or basically a big-block engine,I don't think you would ever get it in there.I agree with Mike,the 289-302engine would be a better way to go.just put 2 four barrels on it and you'll have plenty of power.

 

That's the route I would prefer to go as well. I've seen kits for the 302 swaps, and I've always preferred a 289 over a 302. I wanted to toss the idea of a 400 out since the motor was readily available. Guess I'll go back to hunting for a small block...

Thanks guys,
Terry

 

The only differance in the 289 and the 302 is the crank and rods,they both have a 4.00in. bore and the blocks are the same.

 

To get a 400 into an 85, you would have a pretty good bit of bodywork to do no the front clip. I have helped put 2 302's in Rangers, and have put a 302 in a Mazda B2200 myself, and I know how tight that was. On the 85's, I believe the front clip is shorter than the 90+ models, so getting the engine in with a radiator would be fun. Then you would have to modify the fenderwells to get the headers on - plus fab engine brackets and mounts.

For the work involved - I would go with the 289/302 idea...

 

as far as the 400 yes you can put it in but no heat no ac.
i think you can go up to a 460

 

More on the 460 Ranger:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...ht=460+Ranger+
AL.