transmission replacements for an 84 with 2.3 & 4 speed W/OD

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Sounded like OP had already ruled out the shifter itself being an issue. If that isn't the case, Allstate transmission offers a complete replacement shifter assembly. Core shifters also offers a "short throw" shifter for them, but currently showing out of stock. Some places used to carry bushing for the ball end of the shifter, but I can't recall who.

Bet a good 3d printer could make something acceptable

 

[kishy]

Sounded like OP had already ruled out the shifter itself being an issue. If that isn't the case, Allstate transmission offers a complete replacement shifter assembly. Core shifters also offers a "short throw" shifter for them, but currently showing out of stock. Some places used to carry bushing for the ball end of the shifter, but I can't recall who.

Agreed, OP appeared to have written off the trans entirely, but the way the problem is described doesn't really make sense to me.
I rebuilt my TK5 and there just aren't really a lot of opportunities for things to get slopped out in ways that translate to sloppy shifter action, other than in the shift tower itself. The bores the shift rails ride inside of had zero slop in mine. Not saying it can't happen, but the shifter can account for an extremely messed up driving experience.

My TK5, when I got it, was just about hopeless to drive. Hitting 2 instead of 4 when you're trying to get up to speed is the type of event that prompts you to figure out what's wrong with your shifter real quick.

 

[SenorNoob]

My TK5, when I got it, was just about hopeless to drive. Hitting 2 instead of 4 when you're trying to get up to speed is the type of event that prompts you to figure out what's wrong with your shifter real quick.

Sounds like the FM146 I removed. Now if I could just get the M5OD to shift after it gets hot...

 

[JoshT]

I rebuilt my TK5 and there just aren't really a lot of opportunities for things to get slopped out in ways that translate to sloppy shifter action, other than in the shift tower itself. The bores the shift rails ride inside of had zero slop in mine. Not saying it can't happen, but the shifter can account for an extremely messed up driving experience.

Honestly I never even considered rebuilding the TK5. Back when my '84 2.8L was on the road, I never had an issue with it, but if it had gone out in any fashion I'd have been swapping in an M5OD.

Still got the drivetrain, if I put it back into anything the TK5 is going to be scrapped straight off. Won't be an M5OD either. I'll source the T5 WC from a 05-10 4.0L Mustang. In fact Im considering picking up one of those mustangs on the cheap just for that. Trrans for the 2.8L, engine to rebuild/refresh for Mom's '02 Ranger when it needs chains. If it happens to get a supercharger and turnned into a drift missle in the interim, so be it.

 

[C.Fuller305]

There is a transmission shop in Greenville SC, called All Trans INC. They rebuilt my M50D-R1 in my 94' 4.0. They would probably be able to help you with that information and even the parts too. This is the number and address for them. (864-297-9913 / 134 Transit Drive, Greenville SC, 29607)

 

[pedal2themetal45]

Thanks for all your replies..
I do believe the problem is in the shifter.. and i have ordered a shifter.. Thanks, Kishy for confirming that the shifter is and has been a problem..