1fast50

hey everybody,
i have a 1990 ford ranger and i would like to convert it to a V-8. it is a 2.9L v6 XLT extended cab. I would like to build a Ranger with a 1996-2001 cobra engine on a budget, but i would also like to drop the truck a couple inches. here are my ideas

Mustang II front clip
chassis reenforcements
Tubbing the Rear for wider tires
A Five or six speed tranny
ford 8.8 rearend


What else do i need to have or do to make this dream come true on a budget since i am still in highschool.

Dr. Disque

well, you'll obviously need to build custom brackets for the mustang II front end to bolt into the ranger body and then custom mounts for the engine since the mod motor was never used in the mustang II.

You'll also need the computer for the engine you're getting and have to build a custom wiring harness to convert your truck from OBD1 to OBD2.

1fast50

well i would like to put a 5.0 or a 4.6 in. what do you think would be easier? Do i even need a Mustang II clip or is the Truck frame strong enough to support it? what is an OBD1 to OBD2?

Dr. Disque

the truck frame is definitely strong enough

OBD1 and OBD2 were the 2 different wiring formats that were used. Fords prior to 1996 (going back to about 1989) were OBD1 and wired differently. 1996 and later fords are OBD2.

Read this for way more information than I can provide about your swap

Ford Ranger V-8 Engine Swap

In fact, there are a lot of parts already made for you - Ford Bronco II, Ford Ranger, Explorer parts, accessories - James Duff