I have a 98 Ford Ranger and would like to make it a diesel. I have done quite a bit of research in this area and have found that either the 2.8 or 3.0 powerstroke would be good. But, I am looking for an experts opinion on this matter. I drive about 200 miles a day, at some times I may have a max load of about 250 – 300 lbs in the bed, I have a tonneau. I just got a new clutch and hydraulic system. I understand that this swap could cost me 3-4k completed but would really like to know the best engine that would fit my clutch and be around the 3 liter ranger or just the best engine/transmission combo for 35 mpg and decent torque (so I don’t have to worry about merging onto the freeway). Also if they make a lightweight turbodiesel that would fit with a bit of fabrication could someone point me in the right direction. I almost bought a mitsubishi truck 3.0 or something with the transmission imported from japan with only 35k miles on it for 1200$ but it was missing the ecu. Thanks
Actually for Char – there is a “bolt in” so maybe you should do some research. It is a engine that is imported from australia to canada to the US and costs 4k also comes with an adapter plate for my clutch and is similar to a 2.8 powerstroke yet made to bolt in to the US rangers(with the adapter that is fabricated by the importer). Sorry but before telling someone they have not done enough research maybe you should do yours!!!
Oh yeah, the engine does not require an ECU becuase it is completely manual. Sorry for my tone before, its late and I have researched this for about 5-6 months now and kinda understand this subject a little. If I find the website of the person that imports them I will post it. I also know of people who have used the 4bt – cummins with some mods to the frame and engine compartment.
http://www.4btswaps.com/forum/showthread.php?p=13915
Not the correct one thought just some info
I don’t think you’ve done enough “research” on this engine swap if you are still wanting to do it! There is no domestic diesel engine that will “bolt in” to a Ford Ranger. As far as import diesels, your best bet would be a Japan/Europe only diesel out of a Mazda B-series or a Isuzu truck but even if you could get one imported to the US, you would have to make MAJOR modifications to almost every part of the truck to make it work! Anything is possible with enough time & money but your estimates of “3-4K completed” are way off! To make everything work “right” with no drivability or reliability issues, I would plan on spending at least $8000-$10000. You would be better off buying a good used car or truck that already has a diesel in it! Good luck.
P. S. In response to your additional comment. . . I said there is no “DOMESTIC” diesel that will “bolt in” to a Ford Ranger! An engine built in Australia that was never intended to be used in a US Ranger, is NOT “domestic”!
If you are in USA; there are several people who have put Cummins 4BT (aka 3. 9BT) in thier Rangers; not for the faint of heart. You will need a new transmission, and possibly rear axle if your Ranger does not have a 8. 8″ rear end. You will want taller gears, something like 2. 73 to 3. 27 range. Some have put in Cummins 3. 3 litre engines – which unfortunately are harder to find. The 3. 9 is over 700 lbs (about the same as a big block V8) so you need stronger front springs, and other modifications too. The 3. 3 is a bit over 500 lbs (no parts are shared between the two). so only slightly stiffer springs are needed.
http://www. 4btswaps. com/forum/index. php
Another choice is finding a ‘05 or ‘06 Jeep Liberty CRD which has a 2. 8 liter VM Motori diesel.
Another choice is a VW TDI with Toyota 22R transmission and a adapter for Acme.
http://www. acmeadapters. com/about. php
The VW 1. 9 TDI can be tuned to 300 ft-lbs of torque – more than any stock engine offerred in a Ranger.
http://forums. tdiclub. com/forumdisplay. php?f=4
Any of the above are going to be a lot more than you have budgeted.
If you are outside of North America – the Ranger and its cousin the Mazda B series have always had, and still have a diesel option. They would be the first place to start.