M50-R2 for 4x4

[Noclue88]

I’m starting a list of parts for a 5.0 swap in a 4x4 and needs some questions answered. The truck has a 3 inch body lift and 31’s for now. I ended up with a failure that cost the truck a transmission and transfer case. It’s 5 speed and I’m looking at keeping it that way. So I’m going to be using a 97 donor explorer to swap my 28 spline to the 31, snag the engine and accessories. But is my plans to use the M50-R2 the best route? I know the shifter will need to be relocated to clear the dash. But will it mount to transfer case without any problems? Any help is appreciated!

 

[Noclue88]

My apologies I meant to post this in the transmission thread

 

[fastpakr]

If you get the R2 from a 4.2 liter F150 of the right years (somebody else can confirm, the numbers escape me at the moment), the shifter will already be in the right location. No worries on bolting it to the transfer case as long as it's a 4wd transmission.

 

[Noclue88]

If you get the R2 from a 4.2 liter F150 of the right years (somebody else can confirm, the numbers escape me at the moment), the shifter will already be in the right location. No worries on bolting it to the transfer case as long as it's a 4wd transmission.

Bell housing is different. Is it an easy fix?

 

[fastpakr]

Bellhousing should be the same on the 4.2.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

You will have to enlarge the bellhousing bolt holes. The 4.2 uses metric bolts and the 302 uses slightly larger standard bolts. Pattern is the same though.

 

[Noclue88]

You will have to enlarge the bellhousing bolt holes. The 4.2 uses metric bolts and the 302 uses slightly larger standard bolts. Pattern is the same though.

Thanks ! Does this variant still have the super tall 1st gear?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Thanks ! Does this variant still have the super tall 1st gear?

I haven't had it on the road yet, backing it in and out of the garage it is far from a creeper.