2000 Ranger XLT Long Bed 3.0 Auto 2WD to 5.0 Swap Transmission Question

[Cameron23]

Hello all,

I have been searching for an answer for this for what feels like hours. I can find plenty of examples of 4x4 Rangers being 5.0 swapped or manual 2WD being 5.0 swapped but not 2wd auto swaps. So here is my question:

I'm currently looking to buy a donor ‘98-‘01 Explorer/ Mountaineer (PATS be damned, but I'll just have Ford match my key), to do a 302 swap on my 2000 Ranger 2WD. Since the 5.0s came with AWD transmissions in literally all the ones I’ve located, what has to happen to either keep my truck 2WD which I’m fine with, or to convert it to AWD which would be awesome but I’m fairly certain it is not possible with it being a 2000 2WD?

My guess is that I can use the 4R70W trans from the Explorer/Mountaineer but just not hook up the transfer case. But then what would go in the place of the transfer case at the end of the trans? And wouldn't it throw a code on the ECU I pull from the E/M when the trans is missing the transfer case?

 

[Junglejoe]

You need to find a 2wd transmission. Or have the awd converted to 2wd. The transfer case bolts to the back of the transmission and there is a big ass hole there

 

[Junglejoe]

See what I mean.

 

[rubydist]

The awd transfer case is not usable without the front driveline connected as it would just spin the front output shaft and not move the vehicle. You could potentially use the 4x4 trans if you connected a part time 4x4 transfer case such as the F-150 used and only connected the rear driveshaft.

The pcm will not care if you have all 4 wheels driving or not.