M5R1 to M5R1Hd Shifter question

[RonSerling]

Ok so I have a 93 Ranger 4X4 that I want to swap out the M5r1 with a M5r1-HD. I have seen in a tech article here the shifters are a bit different. My R1 now has aftermarket Hurst shifter on it now. I am curious as to if this shifter will work on the HD or do I need to locate a shifter from a late model HD trans. I'd hate to see the Hurst go to waste here but if I have to so be it. Thanks for the input

 

[RonD]

Won't fit as far as I know

M5R1-HD only fits 4.0l OHV or SOHC engines, and 2.9l or 2.8l

Has 1 extra bolt hole on bell housing, that's what makes it an HD, heavy duty, and that's all, extra hole was added for the higher horse power/torque of the 4.0l SOHC engines

If you are getting a good deal on one then go for it, but never pay extra for "HD" unless you are replacing trans for 4.0l SOHC
Stick with just M5R1 and your Hurst shifter

 

[RonSerling]

Mine is a 4.0L !!!

 

[RonD]

Good

Then if you get the M5R1-HD you will need to get the shifter with it
0 benefit using the HD model on a 4.0l OHV(1990-2000) so make sure it is a good price

 

[RonSerling]

But the question here is will the Hurst shifter I have now work on the HD trans. I have checked on Summit and Jegs and looked at the models they list for both years, 93 which is the year of my truck and 2002 which is the year of the donor truck, and it says they are the same unit. I am curious as to if anyone has done this before. I know its a longshot but figured I would ask !!

 

[Mac]

The shifter is said to fit both models as you found out. Difference between old shifters is the length of shifter shaft going into trans, 1/4" difference that Hurst supplies a spacer for. Can't remember which trans needs spacer but if your has it now, should be able to use existing Hurst with no problem. I have the spacer, just haven't gotten shifter installed yet.
Dave

 

[RonD]

Yes, HD model would need the spacer, it has longer shift rod

Good read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/January2011/M5OD-R1HD_swap.shtml

With pictures

 

[RonSerling]

AHHHHHHH Yes !!! As I recall when I put it in there was an additional spacer in between the shifter ball plate and the trans mounting hole. The original needs it as it has the shorter stub and the Hurst is set up to accommodate both with its stub being longer. Therefore the spacer is needed in the older model to offset the longer stub length !!!