Looking at an 05 Ranger 4x4 but it has a 5 spd manual that is on the way out, what years can i look at for a donor? it's got the 4.0 Sohc under the hood
Just wondering what yr Rangers would have a direct bolit up and if there are any transfer case issues. I think the cases stayed the same well into the 2000's but not sure.

 

Welcome to the forum

Yes, 1990 4.0l M5OD-R1 to 2012 4.0l M5OD-R1 from 4WD Ranger will be fine to use
M5OD-R1 is also abbreviated as M5R1, M5R2 won't fit

4.0l OHV and 4.0l SOHC engines have same trans bolt pattern, transfer case bolt pattern never changed
SOHC engines did have 1 extra bolt for transmission, so the 2001 and up manuals had HD added to designation
M5OD-R1HD, but same transmission internally
Since later model used trans would be best you will probably get an M5R1HD

Speedometer hook up(VSS/OSS) is on transfer case so transmission is not involved in that

2WD manual trans can be converted to 4WD but..........not simple, just doable, best to get 4WD M5R1

The M5OD-R1 was a super reliable transmission, out of the millions out there, there of course could problems, lol, usual Ranger manual trans problems is the clutch system, failing slave or air in the system.

M5OD-R1 uses ATF, yes automatic transmission fluid, NOT gear oil
Mercon is spec, some like synthetic
On the upper rear of this trans there are 3 rubber plugs, for installing the shift rails, these would get hard and crack causing ATF to leak out, anytime an M5OD is out these plugs should be replaced, you can also install metal expansion plugs instead of rubber plugs

Pictures and fixes here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...ntenance.shtml

 

Thank you for a very complete answer with all the info I need. Found that truck had just a little more rot than I want to deal with for the price. keep looking.