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88 2.9L must haves?


NarlinB

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Hello all. I'm new to the ranger field and have made a purchase on my 88 XLT. I plan on having this truck for a while, and was wondering what the must have upgrades are for the 2.9L.

I have ordered parts to overhaul the exhaust including some JBA headers. I also have a 180 degree tstat on the way. I'm also thinking about taking out the AC as I never have used AC in the past. Is it worth it?

Some day I also plan on V8 swapping it, but that is a ways down the road, so I don't want to pour too much money into the engine.

This seems to be a great forum and I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!
 


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removing the a/c is a good choice, especially if it doesn't work. it frees up a lot of room to do any maintenance.
 

alwaysFlOoReD

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86 and I believe 87 throttle bodies are bigger diameter. I don't believe a 180 thermostat is good, 195 is better for overall longevity and fuel efficiency/power.
 
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NarlinB

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Thanks. I'll have to look into the AC removal. I have not tested it to see if it works, I just never have the need to use it. I forgot about the older throttle bodies, I'll have to pick one up when I get a front bumper. Also, what are your thoughts on a cone filter for and intake?
 
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i wouldn't spend the money on a cone filter. if you're planning a v8 swap i'd just do what you gotta do to keep her running.
 

NarlinB

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Thanks Shoddy. I like that F100 btw.
 

shortzt

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I may be mistaking but from what I understand the cone filter won't do much at all because if it being speed density vs mass air flow, I did it to mine before my 302 swap and I didn't notice a difference so I switched back so I didn't have an open filter, still ended up hydrolocking my 2.9
 

adsm08

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1.1 liters more displacement is a 150% must have for the 2.9.
 

shortzt

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I think he meant to type a 2, 2.1 displacement is a 150% must for the 2.9 lol
 

adsm08

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No. I mean that it is 150% necessary to add 1.1L of displacement to the 2.9, for a total of 4.0L.
 

alwaysFlOoReD

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And short was liking the 5.0

sent while sitting on the throne
 

adsm08

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And short was liking the 5.0

sent while sitting on the throne
Yes, two more cylinders are nice to have, but he asked about must have, not nice to have.
 

MoonKnight13

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Www.lmctruck.com
Must have catalog for stock parts.
I also took off the AC from my ride. Just took of the fan clutch and will using electric fan.
Just ordered a new tranny, and a few gaskets
 

shortzt

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I took out my ac, but don't throw away the pump or brackets if you ever plan on on board air it'll come in handy
 

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