I want to change my L4 1983 Ranger into a V6?

I have a 1983 Ford Ranger L4 2.0 4 speed transmission base model. I'm having engine problems with it. Needs work but i want to put a V6 in it and convert to 4wd. Don't wanna sell it nor junk it. I want a shot at this. This model and yr came with a 2.8 L V6 engine. Would that be sufficient power for the pickup? To convert the pickup to 4wd, what front axle would work best?

Yes, the 2.8L V6 will have plenty of power for your application. It was a pretty good engine and hard to kill as well. I had a 1984 Ford Ranger 2wd, automatic with the 2.8L V6 and I pulled a 16' travel trailer all over the country with it, and it did fine. I now have a 1984 Ford Bronco 2, 5 speed, 2.8L V6 4x4 and it does just fine even in 4WD. Granted its not a modern engine with the increased power in today's world but it does great.

Now, for the front axle issue, it depends on what you are really going to do with the vehicle. If you just want a 4WD rig for snow season you can grab the stock Dana 28 front axle assembly. If you want something a bit more heavy duty you can grab a Ford Explorer front axle assembly, you may as well grab the front and rear axle assembly at this point and do the conversion which is pretty simple just google therangerstation forum and it will get you going on that aspect. The early explorers had the Dana 35 axles and had larger axle shafts. Just be sure that the axle or axles you grab have the same gear ratios. Don't grab a 3.73 ratio front axle and a 4.10 ratio rear axle for example you'll tear up the transfer case.

The junk yard or pick a part yards are your only hope for parts, unless you can find a ranger or bronco 2 for parts.