TheLS1Lover

Okay guys I come to you with a question. I can get a 97 Ranger from a friend for 200 bucks. The 4 cylinder runs perfectly and is a five speed. It has 220+K on it so a new motor or rebuild will be needed soon. So I have a few questions.

1. Do you think a LSx/Auto will fit in one? Like space wise without too much cutting?
2. Do you know of any K Members with LSx Mounts that might fit? OR will I have to make motor mounts?
3. I think the truck has a 7.5" in it, would a 8.8" be a sort of bolt in?

I would use a 5.3/5.7/6.0 with a 228R or something similar, clean up the heads, modify a set of Windsor Headers to fit and run a LSx ECU, and Gauge Cluster with a Speartech Harness.

RATBOX

iTrader: (26)

That has a full frame under it, far as I remember, so you'd have to fab something up as far as mounts. Pretty simple.

I don't see why it wouldn't fit, people put 351/302's in them all the time.
I think your best bet for headers would be 302 shorties with LS1 flanges.

I believe the 8.8 for the most part can be fairly simple to swap in, but length is what becomes an issue. You'd have to look up the specifics on that, but I don't think it's a massive length difference.

Don't forget about your drive shaft, shifter and radiator. There's probably something that'd fit close, perhaps a trailblazer SS radiator or any other smaller GM V8 suv.

TheLS1Lover

Okay thanks man that helps a lot! I guess one good reply is better than a bunch of vague ones! Would shorties choke down on power a lot? And I could narrow the 8.8" if necessary..And I will get a custom driveshaft, and run a B&M or something like that for the shifter. As far as a radiator I might call Griffin and see what they say.

1CAMWNDR

iTrader: (21)

Great idea!!! There is no reason why it would not fit. Just a matter of getting the engine where you want it and making new motor and tranny mounts.

TheLS1Lover

That is what I thought. If I can scrounge up some money I will get er done..

nostixs

u can put an ls motor in anything .....just go for it

bmf5150

I think it would be cool!!!

seawalkersee

The LS is fatter than the 351 by about an inch I am told. Give me a measurement and I will go to the basement and tell you. The probelm comes with the box and booster. I had a 289 in mine and had to cut the bottom of the heater box and flip it over. Not tough, but kind of a pain if you do it in the vehicle. Not sure what you would have to do for the booster or even if it is a problem. I know they moved it for the DOHC mod engine when they stuck one in on Trucks, but I did not have problems with mine.

As far as the 8.8, go to the boneyard and get one from an explorer or a ranger already. Some of them came from the factory that way. Oh, and yeah, I would do it if I had the chance.

SWS

polozlx

Heres some info on the 8.8. Thats all I can help with as LS engines are new to me. I think it would be an awesome swap. Go for it. Post pictures!
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Axles.html

TheLS1Lover

Thanks for all the help guys!