the explorer trans will not work, one it has a hydraulic clutch , along with the merkur scorpio, but the 2.9 engine will do nicely , the intake has a low profile , higher compression and better ecm , the T-5 one the merkur has a odd trans mount, (got one ) easy to use the 2.8 mustang two bellhousing and put a T-5 on it from a T- bird , D L Ball is correct on the descendants of the v-6, all take the same rod bearings, main bearings (except thrust on 2.8 and 2.6) and front and rear seals , all years , the pinto engine mounts will bolt on the 4.0 until 1999 , they changed , along with more flywheel bolts, (not the stock six) , 2.8 parts are getting hard to find unless you live in England or Germany , the 4.0 would be the best, good and very reliable , got one in my 93 ranger that I brought new, now have over 250K of hard use, trailer towing and never had the valve covers off, plus you can still find some HP parts for them , (for now ) later Blaine