05 ranger 3.0 into a first gen X

[HawaiiFiveOh]

Just had an idea that could possibly solve my explorer's bad transmission, swap the motor and tranny out of my ranger. A bit extreme perhaps as a tranny fix but why not. I've got an 05 2wd ranger that my brother virtually totaled just collecting dust and a 92 Xlt Ex that needs a new transmission along with a engine rebuild to fix the valve float. Like I said, just had the idea and haven't came across any threads about such a swap yet. I know anything is possible, but any issues that I should be on the look out for I would appreciate the heads up.

 

[iheartbeams]

why a 3.slow?

 

[RangerX]

The only threads about the 3.0 in the Ranger forum are all complaining about how gutless and under-powered it is in a Ranger. Your Ex weighs ~1000 more...
Just my thought.
If that swap is you only option to have a running Ex, it should work...

 

[rhauf]

I thought the 3.0's were only like 10 horsepower less than the 4.0?

and being a 2005 it's likely more powerful than the stock 150hp 4.0
it would probably be an upgrade milage wise, too.

that said, i don't usually recommend this kind of major work. its one of those "if you have to ask, you shouldn't do it" sort of things most of the time. it will take a lot of skill and determination. fabrications such as engine/trans mounts, cooling lines, etc would probably need to be done, not to mention wiring transplant etc.


it would end up being easiest by far just to have the explorer's trans rebuilt. (or get a junkyard trans) i had mine A4LD rebuilt for $500.. cheap i know but it works fine now

 

[HawaiiFiveOh]

I thought the 3.0's were only like 10 horsepower less than the 4.0?

and being a 2005 it's likely more powerful than the stock 150hp 4.0
it would probably be an upgrade milage wise, too.

that said, i don't usually recommend this kind of major work. its one of those "if you have to ask, you shouldn't do it" sort of things most of the time. it will take a lot of skill and determination. fabrications such as engine/trans mounts, cooling lines, etc would probably need to be done, not to mention wiring transplant etc.

it would end up being easiest by far just to have the explorer's trans rebuilt. (or get a junkyard trans) i had mine A4LD rebuilt for $500.. cheap i know but it works fine now

I thought i read the same thing about the horsepower. I also understand the likely hurdles I would face, and at this point it's just an idea that came to me while sitting on the throne. I think it was fueled by the fact I just got a rebuild guote for the tranny at 950 bucks, ouch. Of course if this project takes off it will surely surpass that.

As far as using the 3.0, I was pretty happy with that engine while driving the ranger loaded down with a utility cap full of tools, and felt it would be up to the task of moving the ex just fine. Not to mention it's sitting in my driveway wrecked just taking up space. Thanks for the input.

 

[FORD SUV GUY]

Go for it! I wish I had the time/resources to attempt simular mod's. IMO it sounds like all the variables(totaled "05" 3.0L+trans sitting in the driveway)weight in favor of this particular build. Good luck man, keep us updated if this build happens and of course post LOTS OF PHOTO'S!

 

[Jason94sport]

For the time involved you may as well drop in a 5.0L. Here's an idea ...sell you ranger parts & buy a used or rebuilt trans for your X.

 

[Naasau]

It isn't just about horsepower, it's about torque. While the 3.0 looks good on paper, I can tell you that there is no comparison between a mich lighter and newer ranger, and my lifted, weighed down, ancient X, even on the highway. Mine can climb hills better, accelerate faster, and overall outperforms my friend 3.0 ranger. (Even though my X has stock gears and 33's... so she doesn't push as well as she used to)

It could be partly due to the altitude, but I would say that you'd overburden an underpowered engine by dropping it in a first gen. I personally like the idea of selling the ranger for parts and picking up what you need for your x.

 

[fiftyfordfloored]

When it comes to the 3.0L, just say no. I would not touch one with a ten-foot pole. I used to work for the local Napa, and we had one in our SuperCab 2WD. Gutless even in a two wheel drive. Then it blew a head gasket, which they are known for (in all fairness, it wasn't exactly babied by the kids). Then we had another one at my other job, again, a SuperCab 2WD. Also gutless.

Yes, the 3.0 at it's best shares about the same HP rating as the 4.0L OHV, but look at the torque as well. Are you willing to live with minus 30-40 ft-lbs? My guess, it has problems enough hauling ~3200 lb SuperCab Rangers around, not to mention nearly a thousand pound heavier explorer (4195 curb for a '92 4x4 XLT IIRC).

Best bet IMO is to find a good running 4.0L on the List of Craig. They come up pretty frequently, and it's the simplest option if you aren't going to rebuild the engine yourself. Drop it in, maybe put a nice set of headers on it, an exhaust, TB, MAF housing and a Cold air intake, and she'll get some better fuel economy as well... (I pulled in 21-22 highway).

If you want to replace the engine and trans combo, you could always sell the Ranger, and buy a wrecked '97+ explorer with the SOHC and swap that drive-train.