The 1993 Explorer XLT originally came with either a 4.0L V6 or a 2.8L V6. Therefore, these engines are guaranteed to fit, as they were designed for the vehicle.
Fitting a *larger* engine is a significantly more complex question and involves these considerations:
* Engine Bay Space: While you *might* be able to fit a larger V6 or even a smaller V8, it will likely require significant modifications. You'll need to check for clearance issues with the firewall, radiator, suspension components, and other parts of the engine bay.
* Transmission Compatibility: You'll need a transmission that can handle the power and torque of the new engine. This might mean adapting an existing transmission or sourcing a new one.
* Mounting Points: The new engine will need appropriate mounting points, which might require custom fabrication.
* Wiring Harness and Computer: You'll need to either modify the existing wiring harness or install a new one compatible with the new engine. This often involves significant electrical work and potentially a standalone engine management system.
* Driveshaft: The driveshaft might need to be shortened or lengthened to accommodate the new engine's position.
* Exhaust System: A new exhaust system will almost certainly be necessary.
* Cooling System: The existing cooling system might need to be upgraded to handle the increased heat generated by a larger engine.
In short, while *theoretically* larger engines could fit, it's a major undertaking involving fabrication, custom parts, and potentially significant expertise in automotive mechanics. It's not a simple bolt-on swap. You'd need to research specific engine options and carefully assess the feasibility and cost of the project before attempting it. Many forums dedicated to Ford Explorers could offer more specific advice based on the engine you have in mind.
