Transmission replacement 2001 3.0 4X2 6cylinder

[Tevans22]

Hey y'all! 1st time post.
Gonna be replacing the automatic transmission in my wife's 2001 ranger. This will be a big project for me - most complicated car repairs I've done have been a couple of timing belts. Found a couple of videos of people doing it that seem detailed enough for me to follow along.

Main question is - exactly what transmission am I looking for to replace it, and y'all got any tips on brands / where to look for one?

I also am a little unclear on if there's anything I need to buy along with the transmission itself - I know I might as well replace the torque converter, will a re-manufactured one come with it, or do I need to order separately? And where can I find info on any gaskets I need to buy or sealants I need to be sure to use in specific places.

Other than that, I'm not feeling too stressed about figuring everything out...gonna get a transmission jack, think I can handle if those exhaust bolts are rusted on and I need to cut or drill em out.

Would love to hear if anybody has any general or specific advice they wish they'd known on their first go at something like this if anyone feels so generous too thanks for any and all help y'all!

 

[mc17eln]

For 2.3L and 3.0L engines, the automatic transmission part code is 5R44E. For 4.0L engine, it is 5R55E. Both 4x2 and 4x4 use the same transmission.

I suggest you first buy and install the Ford Workshop Manuals that covers your model year in your computer and study it.

 

[Ranger850]

@Tevans22 All of the info you need is in the Tech Library, located at the top of this page.

 

[Roert42]

Something to consider. Pull the transmission and take it to a local shop to have them rebuild it.

That way if you have a problem, you can go back to your local guy, instead of having to ship the whole thing half way across the country for a warranty claim. Plus you skip the deal of having to return a core to the re-manufacturer.

Just my .02

or, if the transmission is DOA and you want to just swap the thing out quick without waiting, pick up a trans at the junkyard.