2003 Ranger 2.3L Duratec swap to 2000 4.0 SOHC

[Ruffinit]

My 2003 Ranger's 2.3L DuraTec spun a rod bearing. I purchased a 2000 Merc Mountaineer with a 4.0L SOHC/Auto/AWD and am considering a full powertrain swap. Given that all components in the Merc are functional, what would be major problems to overcome?
I'm thinking that the width of the driveline is the same. The other issue could be that the front end won't bolt up to the 2wd Ranger's frame.

 

[stmitch]

With everything that you'd end up swapping, it might be worth it to just do a body swap.

Or, sell your duratec truck, and just get a 4.0 4wd ranger and swap in the Explorer transfer case if you really want AWD instead of 4wd

 

[Ruffinit]

While I understand what you're saying, I've had the Ranger for all but 10K of it's life. It's in showroom condition and I waited 10 years for this truck before buying it. I maintained it exceptionally and it's the truck I always wanted. So that all being said; I wish the engine wouldn't have given out on it because I really enjoyed the 30+ mpg and the spirit of the duratec. Besides I already have a 4wd Ranger supercab.

I've thought of the body swap, but hadn't done any serious looking into it. Based upon your suggestion, I just checked the wheelbase and both are identical. I'd thought the Merc was much longer. You might be on to something. I'm going to look further into this as it would provide read disc brakes, a 5 speed OD auto and the SOHC engine.. Thanks.

 

[1996xlt]

If memory serves, if the mountaineer is a 4.0 SOHC its already a 4wd, you couldn't get the V6 with AWD.

 

[Ruffinit]

The 2000 Mountaineer is a 4.0 SOHC and is only spec'd as an AWD. Even if it was full time 4x4 I wouldn't mind.