Hey does anyone know if I remove my stock cd player/radio for the same year stock cassatte/cd player mp3 option radio, is it a direct hookup without any mods to wiring harness. I called my local ford dealership tonight and they couldn't tell me anything other than you'll have to compare the backs of the units. Anyone done this swap? Thanks

 

Dealer is correct, unless you have original documents for the truck you won't know what sound system you have as far as the head unit(in dash)
Some have the amplifier in the head unit other one has a separate amp, usually in the passenger kick panel.
Have a look here: Ford Ranger Radio Wiring Diagram

Looks like 2005 had 3 radio options
Radio with amp build in for 4 speakers
Radio with separate amp for 4 speakers and subwoofer
Radio with amp built in for 4 speakers and separate amp for subwoofer

But yes to your question, if you swap amplified or unamplified head unit it would be plug and play, as long as they are both the same

 

Thanks for the info. I believe since it doesn't have an MP3 insignia on it it is just the basic system. I would just like to have the cassette cd version instead.

 

I think you would be better off transferring your cassette collection to CD's.
Main reason is that pretty much all of them are no longer replaceable, and each time you play it is gets worn down a bit more.
Tape, like vinyl(records), needs physical contact to transfer it's data(sound) to the magnetic head, or needle, so each play means a little less sound transfer, bits of the sound are lost forever.

Once you have transferred the cassette data to a computer file it will stay in that condition, sound wise, forever, well, as long as you have that hard drive, lol.
And you can transfer it to CDs or USB sticks(newer radios have USB plug ins), as many times as you want(for personal use).

And the original cassette can be stored in a safe place, and no doubt be a collectors item one day, lol.

Tape and vinyl are analog recordings and have pretty much the best playback sound quality you can get, digital(CDs) is an adequate substitute especially for portable players or vehicle use.