Genuine 1998 Ford Ranger Cylinder Head

1998 Ford Ranger Cylinder Head Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q:

  How to remove and install Cylinder Head in 3.0L V6 engine on 1998 Ford Ranger?

  Posted by Arkadiy K.

  A:

  For the removal of the components, one needs to disconnect the negative cable on the battery and also loss the cooling system and the engine block drain plugs. Then, remove the air cleaner outlet tube and the air cleaner and finally the intake manifold. Take off the drivebelts and, if you are going to remove the left cylinder head, unscrew the air conditioning compressor fastening bolts and lift the compressor away without disconnecting the hoses and put it aside. Then while the pump and hoses are still connected, remove the power steering pump mounting bracket bolts, the ignition coil bracket and the dipstick tube. Go on to take off the alternator and the accompanying bracket that is on the right cylinder head, the ground strap, and the throttle cable bracket. Disconnect the exhaust manifold(s), as well as the valve cover(s); the loosening of the rocker arms is also necessary, along with the withdrawal of pushrods in this case. Last but not the least, unscrew and pull off the cylinder heads gently to avoid the gasket surfaces to break. For installation, get a clean bill and check the flatness of gasket mating surfaces for any indication of crack and warpage of surface before installation by covering exposed areas of the engines with a motor shopcloth so as not to through debris. Head(s) should be served as required to clear bolt and bolt hole threads of dirt or contaminations, after which, a light oil should be applied on the threads of the bolts and studs when placing the head gaskets on the block so that the dowels are fitted to align to the visible mark of UP or TOP. Place and fix the heads and head bolts with the recommended torque setting in another sequence. The other parts are placed back in reverse manner to how they were removed then the cooling system is filled and the engine is started to allow for a check to be done to ensure that there are no leaks and that the engine is in good working condition.

  Answered by Ford Parts Specialist George / Mar 25, 2026