2.2L Mazda/Perkins diesel

[Art Lavoie]

I recently found a 1983 Ford Ranger diesel and it has a four speed transmission which limits highway driving to 50-55 MPH (approximately). I was looking for a 5 speed transmission. They must be rare as I have not found one. I was wondering if they even made 5 speeds for the 2.2L or just the 2.3L Mitsubishi. I would like to find one that I don't have to use a universal fit plate to install. any help would be appreciated.
My truck has 140 000 km on it, so I was also thinking I might put a turbo on if posssible. Would that hurt the engine?

 

[zukirider21]

hey im not sure about the tranny issue, but for the turbo, without a doubt that ol 2.2 would handle it no problem.

i wouldnt go overkill, but an appropriate sized turbo should yield nice results. also see if you can crank up the injector pump or maybe bigger injectors. just watch your EGT's.

your 2.2 is definatley stout enough for considerable mods, if you want to go that direction.

 

[zukirider21]

and if you want better top end, why not just get higher rear end gears?

 

[jdm_farmboy]

Well I would assume because its acceleration would then be measured in days. If you swap to a 5 speed your top end is increased because of the higher gear ratio in 5th gear. If you change your rear end, acceleration and top speed are affected in every gear

 

[TwoWhels]

been looking into it...think you can put the rx-7 (early) 5 speed gears into your 4 speed case...i have an rx-7 4 speed and 5 speed extra
one day I'll find a 2.2

 

[doodieroot]

5-spd

i was wondering if you found a tranny to fit? i'd like to do the same to mine.