* Engine Bay Space: The Ranger's engine bay is relatively small. Larger engines will require significant modifications, potentially including:
* Firewall Modification: Cutting and reshaping the firewall to accommodate the larger engine.
* Body Modifications: Potentially modifying the body to give clearance for the engine, exhaust, and other components.
* Custom Mounts: Fabricating entirely new engine mounts.
* Steering, Suspension, and Other Component Relocation: Making space for the engine often means moving other parts.
* Drivetrain Compatibility: You'll need a drivetrain (transmission, transfer case, driveshafts) capable of handling the power of the larger engine. This likely means significant upgrades or complete replacements.
* Electrical System: The electrical system may need upgrading to handle the demands of a larger engine.
Practically speaking, while many people swap in larger V6 engines (such as the Ford 4.0L Cologne V6 from other Ford vehicles) with varying degrees of difficulty, fitting something dramatically larger like a V8 or even a larger displacement V6 would be a major undertaking requiring significant skill, time, and resources. It moves from a swap to a full-blown custom build.
In short, there's no "biggest" engine, only the biggest engine *you're willing to put the effort into fitting*.
