Replace '94 engine w/ used. Year differences, problems?

[Squishymonster2]

I pulled the engine with 118k miles from my '94 Explorer Sport. I'll be buying a used engine.

I heard 91-93 4.0s had some kind of major engine problem. Wondering if that's true or if they're exactly the same as my '94. Maybe it was only for smaller displacement models.

Also, is it possible to put a newer model year engine in there? Would it just be a straight bolt in, do parts have to be interchanged, or brand new parts used? I'd probably aim for 95-97 model year engine to keep prices in budget. Would my computer work stock?

For 91-94 engine with 55k-100k miles, I'm being quoted $500-$600 from used parts dealers. Sound reasonable?

Thanks for reading!

 

[unclemeat]

91-94 engines are fine. Newer engines wil not work. Yes that is a good price, depending on warranty. The worst problem the engines have is low oil pressure. The lifters may become worn and make a lot of noise.

 

[OKBOB]

I put a 97 4.0 w/79k in my 93 X. It worked well. You have to use your intake and injectors from your 94. In 97 you could get a 4.0L SOHC as well as your 4.0L pushrod engine. You will have to stay with the pushrod. I was told that the 97's had the improved or better head gaskets as well as some other improvements. Note: I had a friend who worked at a Ford garage do this as a side job. I may not be able to answer too many questions because I was not present when he swapped the engine. It took him 2 days. I payed $300 for engine and by the time I was done it cost me about $1400 That included new water pump belts etc.