97 explorer tranny question

[hillvalleybronc]

I have a 97 explorer with manual transmission. I need to install another tranny. Will a 2.9 five speed tranny work from an 88 ranger? I have the one from the ranger out. I also have the availablitly of a manual trans. from a 99 ranger 4.0. What or any differences are there in these trannys? thanks for any help

 

[adsm08]

The 99 ranger trans is the better option. The 2.9 trans is the wrong length and the drive shaft won't be long enough. Also the 4.0 will destroy that 2.9 trans. Those FMs barely stand up to the 2.9, the 4.0 shreds them.

 

[bcost882]

i dont even think the bolt pattern is the same. go for a 4.0l tranny for sure

 

[adsm08]

i dont even think the bolt pattern is the same. go for a 4.0l tranny for sure

No, bolt pattern is the same.

I have a trans from a 91 Explorer 4.0 in my 2.9L Ranger, works just fine. I had to switch my drive shafts out for later shafts from a 4.0 truck, and the 2.9 doesn't have the power to break a 4.0 tranny.

But there is NO STOCK drive shaft that will be the right length for a 4.0 Ex with a FM145. By the time you go to the expense and trouble of having one made you just spent more time and money than getting the right transmission.

 

[hillvalleybronc]

I going to go with the 99 ranger tranny? will everything work from it? the only thing i found on the internet was that the 2 oclock belt housing bolt wont like up..thanks for any help

 

[adsm08]

It will bolt up and work ok. You are right, the 2 o'clock hole won't get a bolt, that is for the SOHC engine only. You have an OHV. But it will bolt in place and plug right in and it will work just fine.

 

[hillvalleybronc]

ok good..thanks...