Exploder 5.0 + ZF Trans swap

[MikeWild]

Hey there, I tried a search but came up empty. I'm wanting to swap an exploder 5.0 mated with a ZF tranny into my 91 explorer. I can get a 96 explorer 5.0 but they only come with automatics. Can anyone help
me find any links on how to run the computer with a ZF standard tranny?

 

[capri1979]

what style is the egr( internal or external)? if its a 96 and internal you could just use a mustang computer and distributor, does a ZF bolt to the v8?

 

[Iron Ranger]

I gotta say, I never heard of a ZF transmission. I googled it and it's pretty ugly lookin' No offense, it looks strong, but it's kind of...............stubby.

Anyway, I'm not sure on this part. I guess it all depends on what the computer plugs into. I think that for a manual transmission, there really aren't any plug-ins for the computer, just neutral switch and reverse light, I think. Then again, on a 4X4 unit, I'm sure that there are a few more plug-ins, not my cup of tea.

ZF........ That's a new one to me. I've got a T-5 in the garage and that's the only tranny that I have any helpful knowledge of.

 

[Beanmachine7000]

The ZF bolts up, but it's a burly transmission to put behind the 5.0. People are putting those behind the 4bt with 300+ lb-ft of torque. I'd just go with a M5R2 out of a F-150. It will more than likely be cheaper also, unless you get a steal on a ZF...

 

[Mac]

The ZF has been covered here before, think Baddad457 has one in his. Need at least a 3" body life or some major tunnel cutting. Has a first gear of 5.13 approx so unless you are planning on a lot of rock or mud, you are left with a four speed that has OD
Dave

 

[DieselSmoke]

if your using it as a DD/sometimes wheeler just use the m5r2, if your going hardcore or are going to be running lots of hp and or big tires you want the ZF S5-42 which is the small block ford pattern, i used it and you do need 2-3 inches of body lift, i just did 2" and it still requires trimming and patching around the bell housing area as well as a huge hole in the floor. the ZF also has a 5.72 1st thats good for crawling, there is no computer stuff for the zf needed that i know of

 

[Spdrcer34]

If you are trying to use a M/T with the OBDII electronics of the Explorer, you just need a flasher to remove all Transmission Codes from the ECM. Simple to do.

Besides fixing THAT issue, the Flasher will also help you maximize your power once you ditch those HORRIBLE Manifolds on the motor now. Those are BY FAR the WORST designed exhaust manifold system I have EVER seen.

Ryan

 

[MikeWild]

Does Hypertech or someone even make a flash for the PCM that will even ask manual trans?

 

[Spdrcer34]

Not from Hypertech.

Get a REAL flasher....SCT ot Tweecer

Ryan

 

[baddad457]

The ZF has been covered here before, think Baddad457 has one in his. Need at least a 3" body life or some major tunnel cutting. Has a first gear of 5.13 approx so unless you are planning on a lot of rock or mud, you are left with a four speed that has OD
Dave

Nope, not me. I've got a Toploader 4 speed. Just as strong as the ZF, but a lot smaller package. ZF's gonna need a body lift of massive floor surgery.

 

[MikeWild]

Thanks for the replies guys, you've been a great help!

 

[projectnitemare]

This ZF isn't bad, just huge. You need a body lift or you will be cutting most of the floor out. Even with a BL some of the trans will poke through the floor. As far as strong it's stronger than an M5OD-R2 but not bullet proof. I've blown a high performace clutch out of mine already and am working on the trans itself. They are only rated at 420 ft-lbs and 470 for the revised ones. I'm past that relm of power so no wonder I kill the stuff. For a 302 you will have a hard time breaking it.

Matt

 

[pud]

the zf is a badass tranny. The M5's all have such a high 1st gear, you need to regear to hell n back when you put bigger tires on. With 4.10s and a zf5 running 37s in 1st gear is like running an M5 in 1st on 31s. I did the math once. Good stuff. Not to mention the PTO availability built into it.

Mike, I remember you from funinbc.com but ever since i moved to alberta i havent been able to log on to that site. Cant even load it up.