Welcome to the forum! There have been a lot of Ranger V8 swaps done, and you can get a lot of answers to specific questions from the guys here but the dialog you're looking for is going to be best found on one of the vehicle specific forums, like this one for example - V8 Swap into 02 Edge 4x2 - Ranger-Forums - The Ultimate Ford Ranger Resource That's where you'll find the guys who have already been through all of the details, and know the tricks & tips that make it an easier project.

Good luck on your swap, and once you have that 5.0 in it come here to talk about how to make it stronger, louder, and more obnoxious!!