Ford V8 into A Ranger

["Pat" The Old Sailor]

Can A small block ford be Adapted to a 1999 Ranger 5 Speed Transmission? What type of Bell housing is used? The Current engine is a 3.0 v6. 210,000 miles and still running. I just want to make the truck as dependable as it has been. No big hop up other than a set of headers if that would be dooable! Any help info greatly appreciated "Pat" The Old Sailor

 

[dvdswan]

Anything can be done with the right amount of money and time. BTW, welcome to the site.

 

[rumblecloud]

There is a ton of information on V8 swaps--all types -- in the Tech Library.

 

[Snoranger]

If you want it to be dependable... you’re asking about the wrong transmission. The were adequate behind the 4 cyl and iffy behind the 6 cyl.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

If you want it to be dependable... you’re asking about the wrong transmission. The were adequate behind the 4 cyl and iffy behind the 6 cyl.

The M5ODR1 (5 speed manual just to be clear to the OP) wasn't that bad behind the V6's, probably the best trans put in a Ranger period really.

The "5 speed" automatic was pretty meh. Pretty computer driven to try to adapt a V8 to also.

The M5ODR2 5 speed manual out of an F-150 fits nice and is basically a scaled up version of the R1 they put in Ranger's. Ranger clutch hydraulics fit and work great (I have one in my truck) They all fit but 97-04 fit the best, the shifter is in a position more like the R1 in a Ranger. Ranger shift levers are easily adapted to the R2 shift stub too.

One potential snag if you are 2wd, gotta watch speedo outputs. F-150 went to an electronic speedometer sensor in the trans tailhousing in '97 and just ran off wheel speed sensors after that. Rangers monkeyed around doing different things like that but not necessarily the same year. I have gathered enough to know it is messy but since it doesn't really matter to me I haven't even tried to keep it straight.

If you are 4wd get the t-case that tickles your fancy and run it. Most in your era of truck opt for the BW4406 out of a 97-03 F-150 too, manual versions are available also.

 

["Pat" The Old Sailor]

Thanks for all the helpful info. i think I'll start looking for a 97-04 F150 W/V8 & 5 speed. I have a 2wd. Pat The Old Sailor

 

[Snoranger]

Thanks for all the helpful info. i think I'll start looking for a 97-04 F150 W/V8 & 5 speed. I have a 2wd. Pat The Old Sailor

It’s actually the 4.2l V6 trans that bolts up to the 302/351w engine... unless you’re trying to swap a modular motor (4.6/5.4l) into your truck.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Thanks for all the helpful info. i think I'll start looking for a 97-04 F150 W/V8 & 5 speed. I have a 2wd. Pat The Old Sailor

Good luck finding one. 5speeds seem to be rare in that generation and most ive seen are 4.2/2wd.

Ive seen maybe 2 or 3 with the 4.6 and a manual, ford never put a manual behind the 5.4 in 1/2 tons.

If you dont mind going back to the 92-96 style trucks 5speeds with the 302 and 4wd seem somewhat easy to come by. Personal opinion though if you do go back to s 92-96 id opt for a 300 I6 over a 302

 

[bobbywalter]

Around here 2wd are easier to get....running 250 to 500.

4x4 about impossible for sub 250k miles.....and still 700 bux.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Around here 2wd are easier to get....running 250 to 500.

4x4 about impossible for sub 250k miles.....and still 700 bux.

I dont find anything worth shit for less then 1500 anymore.