Need you guys' suggestions...

[RampageMax]

Ok so I'm taking the plunge here but I think it will be cool when it's done...I'm going to start building a prerunner truck out of my '86 Ranger...Currently has the 2.9 V-6...Question is what motor/transmission combo would rock this truck? I know there will be alot of modification involved, that is not my question...just WHAT ENGINE and transmission will be light enough, yet have enough balls to have some fun...5.0 with automatic? 4.0 with automatic? Not going to buy new, just going to find something that runs good locally...Just wondering if YOU were doing this, what motor and transmission would be practical? Do plan on taking it to the dunes this summer and tearing it up...Everything else is in order with my plans, just want your .02 cents on the motor and tranny...Thanks,
Rj

 

[IZwack]

5.0 and 2wd - and move the engine back about a foot because RBVs like to to endos when they land. But all in all, the suspension is the main focus. An improper suspension will stop a truck with a powerful engine from reaching its potential because it will be uncontrollable at speed. So spend most of your money on the suspension. Heck I'm willing to say the 2.9 will probably work - plenty of desert rangers pushing that 2.9L in local races (running WOT and plenty of radiator). The 4.0 SOHC would be the next alternative - just needs some baby-ing.

 

[RampageMax]

I'm leaning toward the 5.0...that would definatly suck to endo it, hahaha...Thanks...

 

[RangerX]

5.0, no question.

 

[Batman45]

head over to dezert rangers and read up on simon5ay5 he is running a 5L aod i believe with a 44 front

if you keep your 2.9 your craptacular transmission wont hold out, do yourself a favor and get an m5 and do the 4L clutch upgrade