2.9 with an M5OD-R1 HD

[ecgreen]

I have read and searched and it seems to me that I can use the HD version of the M5OD behind a 2.9 with zero extra stuff right? There are things I can do, like clutch upgrade, etc. However, I could just bolt the thing up, modify the hole in the floorboards and roll, right? Just want to check with the RBV gods before I call the yard.

 

[gaz]

ecgreen,


You should definitely consider using a 4.0 clutch though the 2.9's will work.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

I have read and searched and it seems to me that I can use the HD version of the M5OD behind a 2.9 with zero extra stuff right? There are things I can do, like clutch upgrade, etc. However, I could just bolt the thing up, modify the hole in the floorboards and roll, right? Just want to check with the RBV gods before I call the yard.

Does the M5OD have a removable bellhousing? I think the HD version came only behind the 300/302/4.2l and possibly 4.6....so it wouldnt bolt to a 2.9

 

[ecgreen]

Does the M5OD have a removable bellhousing? I think the HD version came only behind the 300/302/4.2l and possibly 4.6....so it wouldnt bolt to a 2.9

It came behind the 4.0 until 2011 I believe:

How to replace a M5OD-R1 with a M5OD-R1HD - The Ranger Station

Original Poster: -Nathan- Difficulty: 8 out of 10 (depending on skill level) Time to install: hours-days (depending on skill level) Disclaimer: The Ranger Station.com, The Ranger Station.com Staff, nor the original poster are responsible for you doing this modification to your vehicle. By …...

www.therangerstation.com

 

[ecgreen]

ecgreen,


You should definitely consider using a 4.0 clutch though the 2.9's will work.

Ya know I should listen to you! How many times have I said, "oh I'll get to it later" and I end up regretting it!?!?! Many...so many

 

[snoranger]

Does the M5OD have a removable bellhousing? I think the HD version came only behind the 300/302/4.2l and possibly 4.6....so it wouldnt bolt to a 2.9

No... that was the M5OD-R2.

 

[SenorNoob]

If it bolts to the 4.0, it can be bolted to the 2.9. Just remember to use the right starter for the clutch you use. It may or may not use all the bolt holes in the bellhousing.

BTW, 4.0 automatic starter is a nice upgrade for a 2.9 if you can handle the wiring changes. (IIRC it's just one wire moves on the fender solenoid.)

 

[fastpakr]

It will definitely mechanically connect. The only change there is the addition of one bolt hole on the SOHC engine. What someone else would have to clarify is whether any other changes happened over time that need to be addressed (like VSS, etc). @RonD ?

 

[ecgreen]

Man I love this forum! Thanks guys

 

[fastpakr]

I put the R1 in my gen2 BII 2.9. I used all the R1 components from an explorer. Flywheel, clutch, slave, starter index, starter as well as the hydraulic line from the clutch reservoir to the slave so the connections would fit. The Fm146 line would not connect. I think it’s just a roll pin holding it in place in the reservoir. I could be wrong but I think The 4.0 flywheel requires the 4.0 starter requires the 4.0 index ring. Someone may want to verify this. I’m just sharing my experience. Good luck.

An R1-HD, or an R1 from an OHV 4.0?

 

[tw205]

An R1-HD, or an R1 from an OHV 4.0?

R1 ohv 94 explorer.

 

[2 bronco 11s]

ecgreen,


You should definitely consider using a 4.0 clutch though the 2.9's will work.

The 2.9 uses a 8 7/8 inch clutch. The m50 uses a 10 inch clutch. You will need the flywheel for a 4.0 and the engine plate also. Grab the positive battery cable if available. There are 2 wires on the 4.0 starter. There is an automatic and a manual starter also. I used a 1990 Ranger Master and slave cylinder for 4.0 when I did the switch. I found a 1993 Explorer complete so I had everything for the changeover.

 

[tw205]

I have read and searched and it seems to me that I can use the HD version of the M5OD behind a 2.9 with zero extra stuff right? There are things I can do, like clutch upgrade, etc. However, I could just bolt the thing up, modify the hole in the floorboards and roll, right? Just want to check with the RBV gods before I call the yard.

Greetings. The M50D R1 HD is a nice upgrade. You didn’t mention what transmission you currently have but I see your profile list an 89 BII 2.9 manual. So do you still have the original FM146? There will be a few things to consider.

 

[fastpakr]

It's worth mentioning that the HD version isn't really an upgrade from the regular R1. It's just different. Either the regular R1 or the R1-HD would be equal improvements in reliability from the FM146 stock unit.

 

[tw205]

It's worth mentioning that the HD version isn't really an upgrade from the regular R1. It's just different. Either the regular R1 or the R1-HD would be equal improvements in reliability from the FM146 stock unit.

Agreed. Upgrading from the FM 146 to either R1s is not simply a bolt on upgrade. Flywheels, clutch, slaves, masters, starters, index ring, and cabling all need addressed before trying to assemble components that are not compatible