If the van doesn't have OBD2 the electronics are not compatible.

 

Ranger forums are swaping 302s left and right with a whole bunch more mods and custom work than appears with the 97 to 2000 f150 4.2s. So far it research indicates an Explorer/Mountaineer 5.0 with the electronics complete seems to be the easiest plug and play swap. Easier may be 80's carb from Lincln Mark VI, Bronco, or Crown Vic will skip much of the electronics but probably may not pass emmissions and won't be the hot rod roller 302. I have recently found an 83 with 83K TBI Carb. I live in NM - no emmission inspections. Yippy Ki Yay
With hot rodders mods going to carbs would this be a good concideration for still a knock around truck? My next question is would this older engine know how to tell stock transmission when to shift?? Yes totally noob here.
You all are great-just don't know how all the Ranger dudes don't blink an I at the 302 swap and the f150 pages extend alot of concern. But then again noob repeat.
Happy new year, keep your powder dry. Shalom.