I like the first generation of lightnings (and love the second),
But I'll be looking for a new ride when my 88 ranger dies.
I was wondering if you put a supercharger on a 95 lightning,
would you have to upgrade any components like piston rods,
driveshaft, etc. ?

 

If you keep the boost at moderate levels (6-8lbs) you wouldn't need any internal modifications. I would however, recommend larger injectors and a good tune with the addition of a supercharger.

 

Those shortblocks can handle quite a bit; 10-12psi wont be a problem for a daily driver as long as the tune is dialed in properly.

I'd also recommend installed an aftermarket valve body to firm up the shifts and reduce friction and a set of traction bars to keep the dreaded wheel hop from snapping an axle and or driveshaft.

 

Good advice in these posts. I can't stress enough how important it is to get a chip and tune. The stock blocks can easily handle 12 pounds of boost but with a bad or no tune all kinds of bad things can happen. The dyno tune and chip will also tighten up your shifts. The tune I had done allows me to run a race tune and with the flick of a switch go back to a much safer daily driver tune. A little pricey $500.00 including Chip and the dyno passes required to complete the tune, but much cheaper than a new short block.
My 2 cents
Mike