98 5.0 302 build

[jjhead]

Hey guys, I have a 98 ford explore 302 engine that I am trying to build to put in a 85 ford ranger. This will be the first engine that I have ever built basically from the ground up. I have the bottom end and the heads. but im not sure exactly all the parts that I need to pick up to make it work in the ranger. The list that I have been able to put together consist of (intake manifold, carb, distributor, alternator, wiring harness, starter, fly wheel, sparkplugs and wires, temp sensor, ignitor, fan, and exhaust manifold). And if anyone knows of any good references that I could use to get some info on building an engine. it would be greatly appreciated

 

[vroomzoomboom]

to save yourself a lot of grief go carb (oh wait, you are going to that way never mind). you say you have a flywheel (or do you mean flexplate are you going auto or standard). if your going to go auto, you will want the one from the explorer engine. they are balanced at 50oz compared to most other 302's that are 28oz. so if you dont have the correct flywheel the motor will be out of balance by lots. another thing you will need is a electric aftermarket fuel pump (one that sits outside the tank). the explorer timing chain cover does not have a provision for a manual pump. if you did get a cover that has one, you would also need to ad a fuel pump eccentric to the front of the timing chain sprocket. next you will want to make sure your oil pan will fit. if i remember correctly a econoline van pan works, but could be wrong. you might, not sure but might also need a remote oil filter kit. if i remember correctly the oil filter (or in your case the oil filter adapter) might hit the steering box.