2000 ranger short throw shift plate with neutral sensor switch(for new/old swapping)

[rickcdewitt]

well i wanted to keep the shorter throw shift plate off a 2000 trans i rebuilt for my 91 ranger but couldn't since it would throw codes and not pass smog.

being stubborn i disassembled both 91 and 00 shift plates and realized only a few parts would need swapped(besides the sensor and its rod) to make it work once you drill and tap the blank spot in the new plate.

i started by drilling with a long drill bit(over a foot long) in through the backup switch hole so it would be straight more or less.i used a 1/4" bit wrapped in tape to center it and protect the plate where not drilling.

then i drilled it from the outside to between .275-.280 for the rod and step drilled the first half inch or so to about .484 and tapped it to the metric course thread.

the surface where the sensor seats isn't milled so i filed it down about 1/16-1/8" so that when screwed tight the sensor pushed the rod into the shift rail bore the same as the older shift plate.

some trial and error may be necessary to ensure you trip the switch.i checked it with a ohm meter and it worked fine the first time.

not bad for an hours work

i may do a couple more if there's interest from swappers.pm me if interested.