ok i have a 2001 extended cab fleetside ranger with the 4.0 and auto 5 speed trans that was wrecked "needs a new head gasket" and i just bought a 2000 extended cab stepside xlt ranger with the 3.0 and 4 speed auto trans "this motor has a spun a bearing on cylinder 6"

I would like to put the 4.0 and 5 speed in the 2000 but i don't know much about the differences of ford drive trains. could i swap these straight up or would it be easier to replace head gaskets on the 4.0 and just swap motors? open to listen to ideas and learn as much as i can about these trucks.

 

The 2001 4.0l will be the SOHC 4.0l so will need new timing chains as well as head gaskets so pull the engine and trans to do the work.
Also replace Knock sensor and thermostat housing, both are know issues with 4.0l SOHC engine, like the timing chains.

You need the trans with the motor because 3.0l trans bolt pattern won't match 4.0l bolt pattern

Motor and transmission mounts from the 2001 will bolt into the 2000 frame.

You will need to swap engine wiring harness and computers of course.
And Ignition key cylinder and door key cylinders, because of the PATS anti-theft system, PATS uses the Key ID to allow starting so hopefully you got at least 2 PATS keys with the 2001
You don't have to change the door cylinders but it is nice to have one key for unlocking and starting.

Drive shaft should swap over if both are extended cabs

Go here to see what axles are in each, using drivers door label: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...le_codes.shtml
This will help you to decide which axle to use
OPEN means only 1 wheel gets power, the easiest wheel to turn
L/S means Limited Slip, both wheels get power so better than OPEN, Chevy calls it Positraction, Ford calls it Traction-Lok

Axle ratio
3.73 is most common
3.45 is better for highway driving, lower RPM at 70mph so better MPG, but not as good for towing or heavy bed loads
4.10 is better for towing and heavy loads, also larger tires