Here is where I am with the swaps
The 89 Ranger 2.9 with dead A4LD is still waiting for a manual trans (the trans I bought from Craigslist was no good, plus I was busy for a while)
The 77 Pinto (was 2.8 auto, no engine or trans now) is still waiting for the '96 4.0 engine
I have as donor vehicles;
1996 Ranger with 4.0 5 speed that runs great
1990 Ranger Lariat 2.9 4x4 manual (don't know if it even runs, just got it)
1975 Mustang II 2.8 auto for the oil pump and pickup tube (and possibly the pan) which have to be changed to put the 4.0 in the Pinto
Should I use the 90 Ranger trans or the 96 Ranger trans in the 89?
I assume the 1990 will be easier, but I am thinking the 96 trans will be stronger. The 89 drives like it is brand new, except for the transmission, of course. It will be expected to do some fairly heavy hauling occasionally, but basically it is to be my toy, and possibly go to my son for 16th birthday eventually.
My budget is slim, but my friend from way back in high school has a Ford wrecking yard a half mile away, but I don't want to overstay my welcome there, though. Nice people.