SVO42
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- December 4, 2002
- Messages
- 480
- Reaction score
- 13
- City, State
- RV Nomad
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 1994 XL
This is just daydreaming more than anything else-I don't even have an Explorer! I might get one eventually (a 1st gen). Anyway, I've read a lot here about upgrading the 4.0 and swapping in a 5.0, but has anyone done a 2.3L turbo four swap? There are a lot of Rangers that have done it. Since they slip in like a glove in a Ranger, I figure it wouldn't be too much of a stretch for an Explorer. It would be a decent power increase over the 4.0 OHV and get better MPG (I know aerodynamics are an issue, but my SVO gets about 20/28 MPG with a heavy foot). A stock 2.3T (in top '85.5/'86 Mustang SVO trim) was factory rated at 205 HP/240 TQ, and can be EASILY modified to get up to 300 HP. The 2.3 can use either the Mazda manual, a T-5, A4LD, or C4.
Would there be any problem in getting a transfer case that would work? There were a few Rangers that had a 2.3 and 4x4, I believe. I know I'm a little biased since I'm a fan of the 2.3T from having a SVO. But do you guys have any thoughts on this? Feasibility, difficulty, etc.? I think a 2.3T Explorer would be a ton of fun. My intentions for such a truck would be mainly for a good snow vehicle, hauling, and some light offroading. I know the 2.3T may not be a great idea for a tow vehicle, but I have my Waggy for that.
Thoughts, guys?
Would there be any problem in getting a transfer case that would work? There were a few Rangers that had a 2.3 and 4x4, I believe. I know I'm a little biased since I'm a fan of the 2.3T from having a SVO. But do you guys have any thoughts on this? Feasibility, difficulty, etc.? I think a 2.3T Explorer would be a ton of fun. My intentions for such a truck would be mainly for a good snow vehicle, hauling, and some light offroading. I know the 2.3T may not be a great idea for a tow vehicle, but I have my Waggy for that.
Thoughts, guys?