Swapping a tranny for Dummies

[spitse]

Just picked up a 2000 Ranger 4x4 auto Extended cab. I knew it has many issues but for the price, could hardly pass it up.

After further inspection, I believe I am going to have to replace the motor in the near future as well as the tranny. My plan is to use it as a hunting truck and a mud buster.

The tranny will only shift if I have the OD turned off. Then it shifts hard and reverse is very, very weak. Backing up any kind of grade is almost impossible. The fluid has been changed as well as the filter, not flushed, but the truck has 250k so can't speak to the history.

SO my question is what may be wrong, big question I know? I think getting a salvage tranny may be the best/ cheapest bet. Don't want to put $1500 in a rebuild, not worth it.

This will be my biggest transplant experience. I have done some Shade tree work, but nothing this size. What tools are needed, not so much size but type. Anything special other than a tranny jack? What should I look for? Are there wrightups somewhere that go more basic than the Chiltons here? Maybe some pictures?

Thanks

 

[herb101]

Make sure to flush the cooler and replace the TQ converter, you sure don't want to circulate contaminated fluid in your new tranny. Also be mindful that a salvage yard tranny is risky too because you don't know the history behind it unless they garantee it.
Just my thoughts.