Changing the trans fluid in my 03' Ranger 3.0. Got everything ready to install the new filter and it is exactly the same as the old filter, except for a cylindrical protrusion that will not allow me to install the pan. The protrusion hits the inside of the pan, so it won't bolt on. I attached some pics. Ca anyone explain this? Thanks!

 

The filter you got has a longer pick-up tube -the cylindrical protrusion- for 4WD applications.
You can go get one with the shorter tube.
If you're a little handy, you can cut it shorter. Stuff a rag up into the filter before you start cutting to keep plastic bits out of the filter.
Remove the rag after you're done shortening it.

 

Thanks for the reply! I got it cut, got the pan bolted back up, filled with Mercon V, and no leaks!