88 transmission swap questions

[88 Blue Ranger]

For the v8 swap I want to use an 88 lincoln with an automatic transmission. It will be going into an 88 2.3 Ranger. Would it be possible to swap to a manual transmission with out changing the ECM from the Lincoln? Or should I hold off and find a Mustang with a manual transmisssion? Thanks for all the help.

 

[piotrsko]

my observations with my swap: the auto combo will work, BUT, the idle on coast to a stop will be erratic, and the computer won't get you the same mileage. I think an ECM from a 88 250 would work better and be easier to find, but the correct ECM from a parts house was only $99.00 and they didn't notice what the old core ecm was, or even if it worked.