351W into '97 Ranger Questions

[runningslow]

Would it be possible to retain my factory 5-speed tranny? At least until I blow it up or find a good T-5, or another good manual?

I see the adapter plate from Advance Adapters P/N 712541, but it looks like that'll cost $300. I'm guessing I could find a suitable T-5 or a C4 for much less than that.

Nevermind... that must have been said in a moment of weakness. That adapter won't work for my M50D-R1.... I've got to look for a new tranny.

Probably leaning towards the M50D-R2, since it might be easier to find. I'll still of course consider a T-5 if I find one of those first.

Now, to pose another question. I still want to lower my truck. Should I do that before, after, or at the same time as the V8 swap? Does it matter? Are there any clearance issues I should consider? I'm thinking maybe a 3/4 drop, with new I-beams up front and a flip kit in back.

 

[Teddyzee]

I think those truck trans' have a low first gear. For a street truck, I'd recommend a T5. But that's totally up to you, of course.

Lowering is no problem with the swap. Lower it before/during/after, won't matter, and causes no clearance issues.

Now, I think I can speak for anyone who has ever bolted a Mustang motormount to a Ranger crossmember: Swapping the ibeams at the same time as the motor swap might be a great idea! Not practical to both at once, though...

 

[RangerSVT]

I agree with Teddy on this one...Pulll the motor first, swap the beams, then install the new motor...
SVT

 

[runningslow]

Thanks for the insight! I'll consider doing the drop at the same time then. I may have to do them at separate times, because of funds, but at least I know the order won't matter.

That being said: definitely engine first! I don't know how much time my 2.3L has left in it and I don't want to drop too much more money into keeping that running. It has well over 215k+ on the clock. I don't know the true mileage, since the odometer and speedo quit working about 6 months ago....

I'll have to go an pick up that 351W soon, so I can find out what I'm dealing with.

 

[Prostreet Ranger]

There is no replacement for displacement. Except for forced induction. So why not both? Good luck on the swap.

 

[motorbill87]

I have an 03 edge and did a 351 swap. Its the best thing I ever did!
Just got it runnin. Stock suspension handled it fine. Already had the bars cranked, AOD behind it, explorer rear end. I got rid of the ac cause I never used it in the first place.

Only problem I ran into is headers........had to use stock explorer 5.0 headers (the real ugly ones that look like they got ran over) to clear the steering shaft until I can make my own.

If you're ever down in st.pete pm me and i'll show you everything I've done.

Went carburated instead of efi due to weight and appearance. A Demon 850cfm carb looks a lot better than that godly efi upper!


Dont have any recent picks tho sorry

 

[motorbill87]

M5od-r2 trannys are horrible. I went through 3 in 1 year
build a t5 if you wanna stay manual.

I reccomend an auto tranny for a windsor swap. you'll probably have to cut the floor more too if you go manual

 

[runningslow]

I just might have to let you know the next time I'm heading over that way, but I have no idea when that would be. I'd love to see your truck and see how you squeezed the 351 in. Call me a wuss, but I like my A/C. But then, I'm from up north and can't take the heat. LOL

Ok, so that's a few votes for the T5 over a M5OD-R2. So, since I want to stay with a manual, I'll look for a T5.

However..... If I wanted to use an auto, what would be the best to look for? C4? AOD? Would there be any issues using the computer from a vehicle with an AOD, but use a carbed motor?

 

[hondarider552]

I would use a C6 behind a 351, but, a C4 would do fine if you dont race it. id rather cut up my floorboard for a trans that will hold good power for years, then buy a cheaper trans and replace it more, just my opinion.

302 and a c4
351 and a c6.

I just bought a 396CI windsor and will be getting a TCI C6 for my swap just after new years.

 

[motorbill87]

c6 will do fine. only problem with a c6 in a DD is that it does not have overdrive gearing.
AOD's do have OD.and they are cheap to build. i have one out of an old crown vic. that is not computer controlled. you can find them in a junkyard all day long.

I'd take an AOD over a C6 for a daily driver simply because of overdrive.
plus their are just as many parts for both through TCI and Art Carr