I have a 1994 ranger 3.0 5 speed 4x4 ext cab the trans makes a raking noise randomly in neutral not often but enough to know its not right but I'm pulling it out because the clutch went out and I found a trans in a 1998 mazada 3.0 4x4 5 speed ext cab and I can get it pretty cheap my question is will the newer mazada trans work any help is appreciated thanks

 

Yes, it is the same transmission.
1991 and up Rangers with 3.0l engines had the Mazda M50D-R1 manual trans

You should change transmission fluid while it is out, easier to fill, lol.
Also draining used trans fluid will tell you a bit about how it was running.

'98 and older M5OD should get Mercon ATF, now called Dex/Merc ATF, yes automatic transmission fluid in a manual
'99 and later can use Mercon V ATF, some have complained the V makes shifting harder in '98 and older M5OD trans, even though Ford recommends it since they stopped making Mercon.
Or you can use a synthetic, many are available
Takes about 5 Quarts

 

Thanks that helps to know I'll be doing the clutch and Trans Monday thanks for the info!