Engine replacement

[Olie]

I'm currently stationed overseas and own a '97 Explorer and face a rebuild or remanufactured engine. I have the OHV and am considering changing it to the SOHC; is this more work than it's worth or a good idea. The current engine has 140K so I'll also be doing trans work.

 

[james t]

way too much work. about the same labor-wise as swapping to a 5liter V8. if you're gonna do an engine swap, go with the V8.

 

[Olie]

thank you. Being stationed overseas would you forsee any problem shipping a new (remaned) engine through the mail or would UPS or the sort be used.

 

[loboga]

It would be overweight for USPS or UPS, I think FEDX ships heavier items now, but it may be pricey, since it will go by air.

 

[RAZOR]

If you're a hard driver like me, stick with the OHV. It's got a proven track record. Myself and others I know with the SOHC have had problems with them.

 

[Hokie]

Originally posted by RAZOR
If you're a hard driver like me, stick with the OHV. It's got a proven track record. Myself and others I know with the SOHC have had problems with them.

I'd say the 5.0 has even a better track record than the 4.0 OHV. The 5.0 would be a great swap and would lead to a reliable install... But if you want to go the cheapest route, rebuilding your 4.0 would be the best way to go.

 

[Olie]

Thank you all for your advise on which engines I should use. To lift the vehicle is the OHV powerful enough to handle 35-38" tires without a horrific loss of power. And what would be the best company to use for the lift?

 

[jimbo74]

the 4.0 has grunt, but 35s or 38s are very large... what gearing are you planning on using? also what tranny.... the engine will turn, but the other driveline componets may not be up to the task

 

[Olie]

I'm a mechanical idiot so I wouldn't know what to use so far a any gearing. I need alot of advise for this.

 

[Howard]

I would say that whilst you are overseas then just stick with fixing the engine/box. Even that will be hard enough with little or no support/knowledge. Lifting second gens is not as easy as first gens due to the torsion bar ifs. If you succeed with the engine/box you will have done well. It might even be cheaper just to change the vehicle. Just my 2c worth.