Will a 302 fit in an 87 Ford Ranger?

Derek

New member
I have a 1987 ford ranger XLT with a 2.9L V6. I want to replace the engine. Will a 302 V8 fit in my 1987 ranger? How about a 302 from a mustang? Thanks
 
Yes, it will physically fit - but that's just the beginning of the switch over.
You will then need an applicable transmission, radiator, mounts, header pipe, linkages, drive shaft, a lot of finagling and fabrication and that's all assuming it's not a fuel injected, computer controlled later model 302.
 
Yeah, it's a fairly common swap. I think the 5.0 H.O.'s from Mustangs aren't that bad to swap because I've seen them put into lots of different vehicles. But a carbureted 302 would probably be easier. Make sure to check out some forums that specialize in engine swaps like that. I wouldn't be surprised if there was a V8 Ranger forum, cause I know they have V8 S10 forums.

By the way, a 351 will fit in there too.
 
oh yeah buddy, even the 351's will fit,. i believe that stock t5 tranny will even bolt up, it is not at all beefed up enough to last. but that light duty t5, and that 7.5 axle are basically the same that come in the mustang 4 cylinder. i would go with the carburetor SFB cause it saves alot of time without all the tuning and electronics will be cut down alot.
 
I researched this many years ago and found out that some cutting is necessary and the front suspension needs to be beefed up. This is in addition to what LeAnne said.
 
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