Hi all

So I have an '88 with the 2.3, and I've been restoring it over the past couple of years. I had the engine in it completely rebuilt, only to have it chew itself apart within very short order. I don't think it's worth it to have the block machined and rebuilt for a second time, so I'm looking to swap it for another 2.3 that has been rebuilt already. Trouble is, I can't find one from this era ANYWHERE. However, I have come across a 2.3 that's listed as being for a '95-'97 Ranger. I'm very close to pulling the trigger on it, but I have some questions. I know that it's the same block as the one in my '88, so it should bolt in and bolt up to the 5 spd I have in it without issue. And I know they switched to a two-plug per cylinder design and ditched the distributor. Is the coil pack easy to wire up? I'm sure I'll need a new ECU and wiring harness, wish me luck on all of that. Mostly I just wanted to know if the accessories I have on my '88 will work with this newer engine, such as alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, etc. Intake manifold? Belts? Any help and info on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

 

It would ONLY work with a 1995-1997 2.3l manual trans computer(ECU) and its full wiring harness

No distributor hole in 2.3l blocks after 1991/2

1989-1994 2.3l computers can NOT be used with 1995-1997 2.3ls because of crank sensor signal changes

1989 to 1997 2.3l used 1 serpentine belt not 2 V-belts, so no your accessories would not work, crank pulley would be the issue and not sure if you can change that to V-belt