I just got an '84 ranger and was wondering what kind of cool swaps and stuff I can do with it? It's got the 2.3L 4 cylinder in it now and I want something with more power. Thanks
First off, congrats on the purchase!!!
Everybody builds their vehicles differently. Be sure to drive yours for at least a few months before you really dig into it. Think hard about what specifically you want the truck to accomplish and focus on what it falls short on and address those issues one by one. Otherwise you'll spend a bunch of money and time building a vehicle that still doesn't accomplish what you expect it to or want out of it. And that is a s***ty feeling afterwards as you're back at square one...
A 2.3L turbo is probably the most convenient way to get more engine power with what you already have. You wouldn't need to source other misc parts, and will work fairly cleanly since you already have the 2.3L, most things are already going to be int the correct place with a few exceptions.
To reiterate what's been said above, go fast parts go through money fast. Modding for more power will cost you money, one way or another (and I'm not referring to fuel).
My suggestion, which I feel is a slightly more viable solution for some, is to consider re-gearing the axle(s) if it's too slow off the line. It hurts a little more with a 4wd truck as you have to spend 2X the money, but it might be able to be done more inexpensively than an engine swap, especially if 2wd (but that greatly depends on how much you manage to source the turbo donor for). You can go a bit farther and add in a traction enhancer of some sort (either limited slip or a locker) at this time as well if desired. I went all the way to 4.56 with a 235/75R15 tire, which is pretty deep for that tire size. 70 mph isn't bad at all, even though the engine turns at about 3,000. But the acceleration is sooo much nicer, and it's much easier and peppier starting from a stop. I have no regrets from doing it. The 4 cylinders in these need RPM to do much.
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