87 ranger 4x4 dist install
87quest
05-24-2006, 07:00 PM
hi all, I recently purchased a 1987 ranger 4x4,2.9V6, I had to replace the head gaskets and I didnt know that I could leave the dist. alone so I pulled it and I need to know the correct install process for it, Can anyone point me in the right direction???
Psychopete
05-25-2006, 10:26 AM
Just curious - Did you have the heads checked for cracks or warpage? The 2.9L heads are notorious for cracking heads under the slightest overheating. The 2.9L heads were improved in 89+ Rangers, is to too late to consider that as an option? The 87 heads will work fine, but make absolutely certain that the cooling system is in good order. I would recommend having the system back flushed and clean out the grime between the radiator fins. Has the reason for the blown head gaskets been diagnosed? That's doesn't seem to be a very common problem for the 2.9L.
The 2.9L dist. can be a PITA IMO. You're going to want to find top dead center on the compression stroke. The camshaft turns 1 time per 2 turns of the crankshaft, so this is important or else your timing will be 180 degrees off. You'll know when your timing is off when the engine won't start, floods really bad, and gives a single pop out of the exhaust.
To find TDC, you'll want to remove the #1 spark plug. (Passenger front) Put your finger in the spark plug hole, turn the crankshaft *****clockwise***** until air starts pushing out. Look at the harmonic balancer for the T|C mark. Lining up the pointer with this line should get you close enough to where you want to be.
Next step, you'll want to set the distributor to point at the #1 cylinder. (TFI module facing firewall) Carefully re-install, it's usually tough, take your time with it. The more you get frustrated with it, the harder it seems to get. Remember that the oil pump drive shaft is spun by the bottom of the distributor. So not only do you need to get it lines with the gear right, you also need to get the oil pump drive back into the bottom of the distributor. You'll know it when it drops in. Put wires back, double check firing order. I would recommend pulling codes to make sure you didn't miss anything. That perticular model was not equipped with a check engine light, there could be some faults in the system that you would never know about cause lower fuel mileage and performance.
Finally, you'll want to remove the SPOUT connector. It's a small white pill that you can pull near the TFI module/fuel injector wiring harness. This keeps the computer from adjusting the timing while you're trying to set the base timing. With a timing light, set the base timing. I believe the setting is 10 BTDC. Turn off engine and replace SPOUT. Test Drive.
Pete
The 2.9L dist. can be a PITA IMO. You're going to want to find top dead center on the compression stroke. The camshaft turns 1 time per 2 turns of the crankshaft, so this is important or else your timing will be 180 degrees off. You'll know when your timing is off when the engine won't start, floods really bad, and gives a single pop out of the exhaust.
To find TDC, you'll want to remove the #1 spark plug. (Passenger front) Put your finger in the spark plug hole, turn the crankshaft *****clockwise***** until air starts pushing out. Look at the harmonic balancer for the T|C mark. Lining up the pointer with this line should get you close enough to where you want to be.
Next step, you'll want to set the distributor to point at the #1 cylinder. (TFI module facing firewall) Carefully re-install, it's usually tough, take your time with it. The more you get frustrated with it, the harder it seems to get. Remember that the oil pump drive shaft is spun by the bottom of the distributor. So not only do you need to get it lines with the gear right, you also need to get the oil pump drive back into the bottom of the distributor. You'll know it when it drops in. Put wires back, double check firing order. I would recommend pulling codes to make sure you didn't miss anything. That perticular model was not equipped with a check engine light, there could be some faults in the system that you would never know about cause lower fuel mileage and performance.
Finally, you'll want to remove the SPOUT connector. It's a small white pill that you can pull near the TFI module/fuel injector wiring harness. This keeps the computer from adjusting the timing while you're trying to set the base timing. With a timing light, set the base timing. I believe the setting is 10 BTDC. Turn off engine and replace SPOUT. Test Drive.
Pete
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