Ford Ranger v8 Conversion

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Time & Cost:

The average conversion time on most vehicles is 50-70 hours. The cost varies depending on what parts you use.

James Duff does a good job breaking down the price on his web site. Advanced adapters offers parts on line as well, but you have to search a little to find what you need. Summit Racing stocks the Advance Adapters parts as well and is the first place we would recommend you call for prices. They're reasonable and fast. Read this whole section for more tips or contact Advance Adapters if you have any questions.

Engine's 302 - 351W - 4.6L:

It is recommended that you use the 5.0 (302) V-8 for your conversion. It is possible to install the 5.8 (351W) especially with a body lift, but the 5.8 is taller and a little wider than a 5.0 (302). If using a 351W you will have clearance problems with the heater box. There is also a potential clearance problems with the 351W exhaust manifold and steering linkage. You can choose between the fuel injected and carbureted engines. The 302 is only about one hundred pounds heavier than the four cylinder engines installed in Rangers from the factory. This is important because as engine weight is increased, the ride height lowers in the front and this produces extreme negative camber at the front wheels.

Some people have asked about using 4.6L V-8's. The 4.6L is much wider and taller than a 302 or 351W. See the chart below for width comparisons.

351C - 429 - 460 Engines:

The 429 and 460 can be installed in a Ranger, although this is not a very practical swap. The big blocks length complicates installation and makes clearance in certain areas very tight. The stock Ranger/Bronco II chassis isn't capable of handling the torque of the large displacement motor and this adds to problems. We don't recommend the big block installation for any but the most serious race applications and never in a four-wheel drive.