I tried the search function without much luck,here's my question anyways,just wondering if anyone had swapped a 4.0 sohc for a 4.0 ohv in an explorer,i have a 97 explorer sport automatic,looking to get a little more power out of it,anyone?

 

Generally I can say, sure, the swap will work, and it seems like it shouldn't be that big of a deal. The best case scenario is if you buy another Explorer with the engine in it you want. I saw some nice wrecked ones here on Craigslist for $1000US. Be sure your donor vehicle is the same year and options as yours so that the wiring will plug right in and the computer will be programmed for your vehicles configuration - California emissions or 49 states, 4X4 or 4X2, auto trans or stick shift, this will help keep you from having unexplained issues later.

It's pretty sure you will need to swap out more items like the engine compartment wiring harness, air filter housing and computer too. The accessory mountings and hoses may be different like power steering and A/C compressor. I've not heard if the wiring and sensors on the 4.0 OHV (older design) are long enough to plug onto the 4.0 OHC (newer design) engine. You'll most likely need the exhaust sytem off the OHC truck or modify yours to fit. I'd be surprised if your exhaust matched up exactly with the newer OHC cylinder heads. There may be a difference in the fuel pump too, which is in the fuel tank.

If you do a professional job of it, it shouldn't give you any problems down the road. It will be a pretty big job, but not impossible for the right person with the right stuff to do it. I'd guess it would cost more than the vehicle is worth, but if your old engine was bad already and you got a deal on a donor vehicle, or at least engine with wiring harness, it could work out ok. A lot of time will be put into it.

Also to consider - there are also some basic bolt on things you can do to get more power out of the OHV engines, but still not the power of a stock 4.0 OHC.

I hope there are some Explorer experts on here that will help you more. Search other Ranger and Explorer threads and sites.

 

just wondering what bolt on's can be done and where are they available,tried looking before only found ohc and v8 exhaust,etc.

 

i'm guessing this would be a really stupid question,but would it be possible to put a 5.0 in,or is there some big difference between the 2 and 4 door explorers?