2.9-3.0 interchangeability

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Aug 13, 2007 | 10:45 PM

hush210

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2.9-3.0 interchangeability

Does anyone know if the transmission bolt pattern is the same on the 2.9 and the 3.0? the truck is a 86 ranger with a 5-speed.

Aug 14, 2007 | 06:49 AM

Rockledge

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From: Connecticut

The bolt patterns are not the same.

Aug 14, 2007 | 04:21 PM

hush210

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So Im gonna need a new tranny if I wanna use this motor?

Aug 20, 2007 | 12:34 AM

mebe2k

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From: Ford, WA

if it is a 2wd you could use a tranny out of a 3.0L manual Aerostar..

Aug 20, 2007 | 05:31 AM

Pablo-UA

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From: Kiev, Ukraine

Ore bellhousing only. BTW. I have 3.0 Aero converted to MT5. People say that 3.0 is better then 2.9 and I dont know why?

Aug 20, 2007 | 09:31 AM

BSmitty

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From: Yes

Although the trans in your '86 has a removable bellhousing, the 3.0l was never mated to any other trans aside from the Mazda, which has a 1-piece body, no seperate bellhousing. So the short answer is yes, you'll need a new trans to use a 3.0l, along with a wiring harness, since the engine management system is set up differently between the 2 engines. Stick with the 2.9l IMO, just as powerful, and durable if properly cared for, and probably cheaper used.