A4LD swap options?

[BrownRangers]

Looking to pick up another Ranger. Trans overheated says previous owner. "Ran fine till started slipping" Could this be a quick fix or should I have rebuilt?

1988 XLT 2.9 A4LD 2WD

Quotes for benchwork and parts is $1500-$2100 for a rebuild with local quality shops.

What are my options for putting in any other AUTO trans that would work. Will the newer 44 and 55r types from Explorers or newer Rangers swap without timely or expensive electronics to hook up?

Any input will be appreciated.

 

[Dirtman]

The 4r/5r won't work. They are electronically controlled, your truck lacks a computer to operate it.

 

[Shran]

The only easy bolt in options are another A4LD or a C4/C5 (hard to find, probably would have to be custom built for a 2wd application.)

Harder yet is a GM 700R4 conversion - there was a company making adapters but supposedly they are out of production now.

 

[BrownRangers]

I have a spare mazda manual trans, and pedal box from a 87, how hard would it be to swap to manual with the electronics for auto having to be over-ridden? Also have a 5.0 roller motor and aod with approx 80k on it(could just swap that and do the CA BAR paperwork) but kinda wanted the stock driveline for future sale since it is CA and the truck is cosmetically perfect and smogs with current engine? I wanna keep the A/C and auto if possible. Have a 2.8 manual already.(no A/C and manual in LA traffic sucks)

 

[Shran]

Manual swap is quite easy. The automatic ECU doesn't really care what's behind the engine but it will throw codes for the lack of torque converter lockup and 3/4 shift solenoid. Could use a manual trans ECU if the CEL stays on - I assume the smog place will care about that. There is some wiring to deal with but nothing crazy. Since it's in good shape maybe it's worth rebuilding the automatic, then you can have all the upgrades done to it at the same time and install a bigger cooler.