302 T5 trans & AOD Starting problems

[Knightrider]

ok people I have an 89 Ranger GT with a 302 AOD transmission. ever since i've owned it I planned to swap in a WC T5 transmission. on mustangs i've been researching its a swap in no driveshaft issues just wire up the pedal and go( Something like that)

my question is if I already have an auto in there. would the T5 fit the same area as the auto? i will need to adjus the hole for the shifter and pedal. I'm looking into a 5 speed swap as it is.

Issue #2, I have swapped in a 302 95+ mini starter after my first starter took a dump. lately I've been seeing problems such as when I go to crank the starter sounds like its sticking or not turning the flywheel. Or it just sounds like its breaking all in one. currently I have 2 (2-3 mm washers) shimming the starter from the tranny. I had it with no washers and the starter started grinding now I put the 2 washers w orked like a charm for a month or so now the starter is starting to sound the same.

is this a problem with the flywheel? the teeth looked fine as I checked when I was under the car. or is the starter too far away from the transmission. not sure its a pain in the a$$ working on that starter in the ranger. I'm planning to changed the fly wheel when I do the 5 speed swap to eliminate that problem but not sure if its necesary.

thanks this ranger is beating me up.

fun truck tho

 

[My91Ranger]

The T5 will fit perfectly into place with out any modifications to the driveshaft, same slip yoke and everything. I did the exact swap in my truck. Have fun setting up a clutch cable. The shifter hole will be farther back than stock unless you use an S10 tail shaft housing on the t5. If you need more help with the swap PM me.