I've been wanting to put a 302 in my 01 4x4 for quite awhile and thought I'd also like to make it a manual as well since I'd like to swap out the transmission if I'm going to put a V8 in.

I'm looking to get a parts list of sorts as to what I would need to do a swap and possible turn it into a manual at the same time. Wasn't sure if this had been explored before or if I'd be better off leaving it an automatic.

I hate the fact that its an auto.

 

Seeing that you have a 2001, my advice, having been there and done that, is to get the same year explorer wrecked. Mine was a '99-'99 swap. You'll need the engine and associated stuff (accessories, etc), transmission, transfer case, front driveshaft, (maybe the rear too, it's been so long since I've done mine that I can't remember), the engine harness, the PATS module and key cylinder, the motor mounts, and the transmission cooler (if going with automatic, like I did). One thing for perspective- if you have the SOHC 4.0, you could swap the manual from the same year with far less complication and end up with essentially the same stock horsepower and torque. It will be lighter and the transfer cases will bolt up, and be similar amounts of fun as the v8. Obviously the top end with the v8 is far higher, as the 5.0 has tons of aftermarket support. Also, another perspective is that the automatic behind the 5.0 is a far better transmission than anything they ever put in a Ranger. I've been quite happy with mine (though I do miss rowing gears).

 

There is also the option of using a '97 and up F-150 M5OD-R2/transfercase
Look for F-150 4x4 with 4.6l modular engine they have the same bellhousing bolt pattern as the 302(5.0l)
In '97 the F-150 shifter was moved farther back so very close to where Ranger shifter is.
Transfercase is wider but will fit.
Benefit of this is that all these parts are built to handle the extra power.