I have a 1997 Ranger XLT 2.3l 5spd manual 4x2 that I have had for several years. I need more towing power and am looking into possibly swapping out the 2.3l with a 4.0l SOHC. I need to know if I could A) keep the 5spd manual or would I have to change it and B) What else would I have to change?

 

Ford Ranger 4.0L V-6 Engine Swap

 

Ok, those articles don't mention anything about having to mess with anything past the tranny so thats good. But it doesn't say which trannies work with which engines. Although it does say the bell housing bolt pattern is universal. So can anyone tell me if the 4.0 SOHC will bolt up to the 2.3l M5OD tranny without adaptation?

 

The transmission would be the same, but you do need to make sure you have the right bellhousing. You need one for the 4.0L.

Question, wouldn't it be better to sell the 2.3L and buy a 4.0L

 

Ok thats what I was afraid of. Basically I would need everything from the radiator to the drive train...

I can't afford full coverage insurance at 4500 a year plus the payments on a loan. Hence just swapping the engine. Don't have to take out a loan and don't have to get full coverage insurance.

 

No the trannies are not the same they use a different bellhousing pattern and that bellhousing is cast with the tranny. Also the input shaft length is different. You will basically need all the wiring and ecm from a donor. Also the 2.3 Rangers typically used smaller differentials. These kinda of swaps are doable but require a lot of parts swapping to get them right. But a big bottle of asprin you are going to have a lot of headaches.