jzranger4x4
Member
I'm getting all my ducks in a row so I can get my A4LD recycled into beer cans.
I want to swap a FM146 manual transmission to my Ranger running a 91 Explorer 4.0 V6 engine. I know the M5R1 is WAY better, but I can't find one. For now the FM146 will do, until I can get my hands on one. Hopefully, I've got mostly all the mechanical aspects covered already.
My questions:
1. Somewhere on a thread I read that you have to do a starter mod to the solenoid to get it to work. Is there a write-up somewhere with pics and/or schematic? Is it necessary for my application??? I know I will be using a new manual starter and may require a longer cable from the solenoid to get to it. It's not in the tech library. This would make an AWESOME addition to the library!!!!
2. Are the FM146, A4LD and M5R1(HD too) the same length? Are the cross member locations identical? I looked at the library and M5R1 dimensions aren't listed. I'm looking for the dimensions from the face of the bell housing(engine side) to the mounting surface of the t-case. I want to make sure that my non-stock drive line(running a doubler) will bolt up once I find an M5R1 or the HD version.
3. Is the ECU swap absolutely necessary? I've read different stories in the forums. Re-timing the engine may fix the problem, etc...?????? If necessary, which ECU do I need? Part number?
4. I will need to take care of the NSS and reverse lights. Any tips to prevent rookie mistakes? I've seen a ton of write-ups on this one.
Thanks in advance!!!! I know I'm asking for a lot of information.
I want to swap a FM146 manual transmission to my Ranger running a 91 Explorer 4.0 V6 engine. I know the M5R1 is WAY better, but I can't find one. For now the FM146 will do, until I can get my hands on one. Hopefully, I've got mostly all the mechanical aspects covered already.
My questions:
1. Somewhere on a thread I read that you have to do a starter mod to the solenoid to get it to work. Is there a write-up somewhere with pics and/or schematic? Is it necessary for my application??? I know I will be using a new manual starter and may require a longer cable from the solenoid to get to it. It's not in the tech library. This would make an AWESOME addition to the library!!!!

2. Are the FM146, A4LD and M5R1(HD too) the same length? Are the cross member locations identical? I looked at the library and M5R1 dimensions aren't listed. I'm looking for the dimensions from the face of the bell housing(engine side) to the mounting surface of the t-case. I want to make sure that my non-stock drive line(running a doubler) will bolt up once I find an M5R1 or the HD version.
3. Is the ECU swap absolutely necessary? I've read different stories in the forums. Re-timing the engine may fix the problem, etc...?????? If necessary, which ECU do I need? Part number?
4. I will need to take care of the NSS and reverse lights. Any tips to prevent rookie mistakes? I've seen a ton of write-ups on this one.
Thanks in advance!!!! I know I'm asking for a lot of information.