engine conversion.

[DBA4X4]

I want to either put a more modern fuel efficient engine in my 92 ranger or make it more efficient by turning my 3.0L SOHC into a DOHC, with some type of air induction system. I also need to know what type of injector would be more efficient 15 psi or 19 psi. does anyone have any idea for me.:rangertan:

 

[arco777]

You'll need to research and learn more first.

For one thing your 3.0, if factory, is not a SOHC - it's an OHV. I'm not sure what you mean by an air induction system - technically your truck already has one, and it's actually a "cold air" type from the factory.

You can do an engine swap of a 4.0 OHV or 4.0 SOHC relatively easily. There are plenty of other options from the 4.6 SOHC/DOHC to 302 Windsor and even 460 FE, all with various degrees of difficulty. Honestly though if all you want is more power and better fuel economy, get a newer Ranger. Engine swaps are a big hassle and cost a lot of money. That money could be spent on a late model Ranger with a 2.3 DOHC Duratec or any of the more powerful options available.

In regards to your injector question, neither has an effect on efficiency - if you want better gas mileage from your current truck, there's no easy tech solution for that. Improve aerodynamics, reduce weight, use low-drag tires, change axle gearing or shift habits (manual trans), and do a tuneup. That's about it. It's a square truck, not a Geo Metro.

 

[DBA4X4]

What can I do for more fuel efficiency and power? are there any mods? I was told to take off the catalytic converters and use a flex hose. what are your opinions? I was also told to use a v8 from a taurus.

 

[arco777]

Catalytic converters are not really a restriction at all... That's just a popular redneck hotrodders tip, like disconnecting the EGR and switching to a carb, adding a pointless cone air filter, or removing the thermostat.

The only Taurus that ever had a V8 was the 96-99 SHO, and the 3.4L Yamaha V8 isn't that common a find. The ones that are in the junkyard are there because the cam sprockets failed. Unless you count the Taurus-chassis 95-02 Lincoln Continental that was available with a 4.6L DOHC, but the FWD application version of that motor/trans isn't worth swapping - if you want a DOHC 4.6 from a junkyard look for a Mark VIII.

If you want more fuel efficiency with what you have now, do what I already said -

if you want better gas mileage from your current truck, there's no easy tech solution for that. Improve aerodynamics, reduce weight, use low-drag tires, change axle gearing or shift habits (manual trans), and do a tuneup.

Look into hypermiling forums. People do stuff like aero mods, such as wheel fairings and covering gaps with speed tape.

If you want more power, do a search specfically for 3.0 OHV power upgrades on this forum. There may be something.

 

[DBA4X4]

how do I switch the axle gear ratio?

 

[colintrax]

how do I switch the axle gear ratio?

Take it to a shop cuz obviously you have no idea how and will just tear it up.

 

[cgbier]

And keep in mind that at speeds a truck is normally used, aerodynamic improvements don't necessarily enhance gas mileage. Aerodynamics are really only kicking in effectively at speeds above 40-50 miles. As it is an exponential function, you'll only see major effects at higher speeds.

 

[Jason94sport]

you'll only see major effects at higher speeds.

Or long straight distances....
My SRT8 gets 12mpg if I'm lucky around town. But a 700+ mile road trip I get 20mpg.

 

[arco777]

how do I switch the axle gear ratio?

Find out what you have, first...

Then you can decide if you want to change it out and put what in. I usually find it cheaper to install a complete axle assembly from a junkyard vehicle. The Ranger was available with both 7.5" and 8.8" rear axles. Find out which you have. Conversion from one to another may require additional parts, I'm not sure what but you can with research.

For example, if you have a 7.5" rear end with a 4.10 ratio gearset, you could install a 7.5" rear end with a 3.27 gearset without changing much of anything. The 3.27 in that case would net you decreased torque, but a bit better mileage. Most people go the opposite way, because they want more torque. Another reason people switch is to gain a limited slip differential, which is a factory option. Of course you'd also have to recalibrate your speedometer if you change axle ratio, but the donor vehicle may have the correct gear for your application.

Sounds like you need to do more research on your own, instead of trying to get all the answers handed to you in this thread. Giving you this freebie though.

 

[cgbier]

Or long straight distances....
My SRT8 gets 12mpg if I'm lucky around town. But a 700+ mile road trip I get 20mpg.

True, but that is more related to stop and go than aerodynamics.