What year engine can I use?

[Stick4503]

Hello all, I tried to search the forums first but was not able to find what I needed. I have a 1998 explorer 4X4 with the 4.0 SOHC engine. I need to replace the engine and am having trouble finding a used engine. To start with what year models can I use, I have been told only 97 and 98. I have also been told 97-2001. Also been told to only use 4 wheel drive model and have been told no problem with 2 wheel drive model.

If i can narrow down the years then I can see about the 2 vs 4 wheel drive.
Any help please.

Thanks Keith

 

[2000StreetRod]

any Ford 4.0L SOHC long block

You can use the long block in any vehicle that came with Ford's 4.0L SOHC V6: Explorer, Mountaineer, Ranger/Mazda B4000, Mustang and Land Rover Discovery 3/LR3. The 4WD engine has a balance shaft. Most of the 2WD engines do not. However, several members have swapped their balance shaft engine with one that doesn't have a balance shaft and almost all have reported no problems. Surprisingly, some of the early Mustang engines had a balance shaft even though they were 2WD. The Mustang engine has a plug in place of the crankcase breather on the Explorer. Also, there is a minor difference in the fuel injector mounting. Several members have replaced their Explorer engine with a 2005 or later Mustang engine and there are posts on the forum describing the process. Unless you get the same year engine, you should use your current engine wiring harness, intake and exhaust manifolds, fuel rails and accessories to simplify the swap.

 

[koda2000]

i'd go with the 2005 Mustang long block. Ford didn't overcome the cam chain problems with the 4.0 until then.

 

[Stick4503]

Thanks

Thanks for the replies, will start looking again. Any other opinions appreciated as well.