2.3l To 2.9l Swap

[Brandon@BTF-fab]

Hi all, newbie to this forum here...here goes, hope this is in the right place.

I am looking to upgrade my 2.3L. It's on it's last legs anyways, but I want to stay smog legal. I found a used 2.9 liter w/ trans/wiring/computer/accessories for a good deal...
Truck is an '87 2wd Ranger std. cab longbed, 2.3l 5 spd.

new engine/trans is 2.9L/4 spd. auto.

anything other than engine & trans mounts/trans crossmember & driveshaft needed?
any tips/tricks are appreciated.

-Brandon-

 

[410Fortune]

You need the computer, wiring harness, and a bunch of other stuff also.

Have you considered skipping the 2.9L and going straight to a OHV 4.0L?
Much better choice, same amount of work and $$$

Your best bet is to buy the entire donor vehicle IMO

 

[Brandon@BTF-fab]

I've definitely considered the 4.0 swap, but I found a deal: complete 2.9L supposedly rebuilt w/ 30,000 miles, all accessories, & computer w/5 spd trans for $120.00

my 2.3 has started acting up & I can't seem to get it figured out. If the compression check on the 4 cyl. shows something wrong, i'll probably pull it for the 2.9.

another reason for the 2.9 (maybe not a good reason) is that it is considered a replacement engine for my '87 whereas the 4.0 was not offered in '87 so i'd have to go to a referee to stay smog legal, from my understanding.