M50D-R1 or R4

[jsr57704]

OK, I have been researching my transmission problem on the internet tell my finger and eyes are HURTING. I have a 92 Ranger 4WD with the 4.0L and a five speed transmission. Something went wrong with internal gearing, have not disassembled yet to find out exactly what yet but how zeroed it down to the transmission not the transfer case or other driveline. From what I can tell the trany is a Mazda M50D-R1 by the tech library on this web site. They mention a R4 as a heavy duty version of this trany. As I have larger tires on this truck I am trying to decide if repairing the original trany or going to something heavier would be better. Not wanting to do any major converting just want something to bolt in. Is the R4 a heavier trany? Will it bolt up with the engine and transfer case? What vehicles had the R4 from the factory?

 

[orangealpine]

I wouldn't pursue it, insanity is the only destination. There is so much garbage out there on the net concerning the M5OD tranny, it is impossible to sort it all out. For example, there is a very common chart that lists ratios for M5OD's used in 4 banger Mustangs. No 4 cylinder Mustangs ever used the M5. The chart is wrong on that detail, so I wouldn't trust anything else it contained.

I have been burning up the web the past few days, trying to get some info to repair my late model M5. Ford updated on the M5R1 sometime in the early 2000's (accounts vary) using fibre baulk rings and a redesigned 1-2 synchro ring. Most everything else stayed the same. I have seen this upgrade called the R4. That may be right, may be wrong. In any event, I would forget the R4. Even if it exists, where would you find it? I suppose if you really want one, go to a Ford dealer and buy it. Seriously, they may be able to give you some info about its existence.

Bill

 

[adsm08]

The R4 does exist. It will not bolt to your engine. It was found in F-150s, mostly behind the 4.9L/300-6.

The M5OD-HD is the 4.0L SOHC version was heavier and will be close to bolt in for you.