5.0 Swap Questions

[shr3dd3r 09]

I have most of the information I need for my swap, but I still have a few questions I would like to get cleared up before I begin. Here's what I'm planning to do:

I have a 2000 Ranger XLT regular cab with the 3.0L engine and 4X4. I will be swapping the 5.0 from a 2000 explorer along with all the accessories. However, I am planning on keeping my truck as a 5-speed manual.

My plan is to use the explorer engine and bolt it to an M5OD-R2 transmission from a '97-'03 F-150 (these years place the shifter location in a similar position). Also, since my truck is a regular cab it will probably be difficult to use the F-150 transfer case and fit it between the frame rails and have it clear the gas tank. So I am planning on buying the AA kit to bolt the M5OD-R2 trans to my BW1354. I will have to deal with drive shaft mods.

My biggest concern is about the ECU. The explorer computers are set up for its AWD transmission. I assume this will not work if I am keeping my truck as a 5 speed. Is there another computer option I can use for this swap?

Also, my T-case is electric shift. Is this system independent of the ECU or does the ECU send the signal to engage the 4X4? If it is computer controlled I will have to go with the F-150 manual shift transfer case and worry about stuffing it under there somehow.

Is there anything I have overlooked or should be thinking about? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

~Casey

 

[Teddyzee]

The Explorer ECU will be looking for the auto trans, and will show a check engine light. I do not know if this will affect performance.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

The Explorer ECU will be looking for the auto trans, and will show a check engine light. I do not know if this will affect performance.

I think it does play with idle speeds and whatnot... at least on the older cruder Ranger systems I have read about.

I don't think the fuel tank will be a problem, at least I have never heard of it being a problem before. Certain T-cases require frame modification for width but I don't think length has ever came up before. Some guys even stick two of them together for a doubler.