Tra.nsmission

[Barbara]

I'm looking into putting a 302 motor in my 1985 Ford ranger 4x4 standard and it has a lift on it. What is the best compatible transmission to go with the 302 motor? Also I've heard that headers will not enough clearance for them.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Auto or manual?

Auto id say a C4 or AOD.

Manual M5OD is what most guys run

 

[sgtsandman]

The clearance issue is with the steering shaft. Some headers came pre-dented for that issue, others, you have to dent yourself. Either way, they need to have a dent in the tubing. None have the tubing bent to address the issue.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I just moved this post over to the V8 swap forum...

There is a bunch of this info you're looking for in the Tech Library.

 

[bobbywalter]

Where in Michigan?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

The clearance issue is with the steering shaft. Some headers came pre-dented for that issue, others, you have to dent yourself. Either way, they need to have a dent in the tubing. None have the tubing bent to address the issue.

What does the dent do?

 

[RonD]

Bookmark this page: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index.shtml

Look in the Engine or Conversion section, for the Ranger V8 swap articles, there are several, exhaust is addressed in most
Any of the factory manifolds are TUNED, so they are "headers", they are tuned for mid-RPM scavenged power, many want the lower RPM tune which most 3rd party header provide, avoid "racing headers" they are tuned for high RPM

Need to relocate oil filter as well

You can use older 302 manuals and transfer cases(can't use Ranger transfer case), most have the trans shifter coming up too far forward so shift arm hits the dash, it can be custom bent to work, just a little HEAT, lol

For a better fit a 1997-2003 M5OD-R2(M5R2) 4x4 trans with transfer case from a 4.2l V6 F-150 with fit better, shifter is in the same place as your current Ranger shifter
The 4.2l V6 uses the same windsor bolt pattern as the 302, so bolts right up, need to drill out the bellhousing holes 1/16" because 4.2l used metric bolts, 302 use SAE so just slightly larger diameter

 

[sgtsandman]

What does the dent do?

It depends on the header. Some need clearance right about where photo is pointed.

 

[bobbywalter]

Intended use is key for advice.