Hey guys I’m really trying to find a good automatic transmission for my sons 89 2wd 2.3 l ranger. Any models I can pull from and if so what do I need to swap. If I read correctly it’s a A4LD trans. Any help would be appreciated thank you.

 

Yes, A4LD automatic was used from 1985 to 1994 in Rangers, earlier only had 1 solenoid, your 1989 needs 2 solenoid version
So 1988-1994 Ranger with 2.3l and 2WD are the only years for plug and play
It is a good transmission as far as design, it's basic design was used thru 2011 in Ranger/Explorers, so 26 year run, longer than most automatics, lol

Bell housings won't match up with other engine sizes, i.e. 2.9l, 3.0l and 4.0l, same trans model but wrong bell housing bolt pattern, need to tear down transmission to change bell housing since its part of the pump housing in automatics

https://www.car-part.com/
This is a good place to look for used parts

If you can find one that was recently rebuilt great, otherwise used automatics are a BIG gamble
Rebuilding the one you have is the best option


Spending money on a used vehicle needs to be looked at in a cost per month to drive it
Tires, brakes, oil and gas are all expenses that are needed for used or brand new vehicles, so are not included

When it comes to major repairs like an engine or transmission you should look at it as a cost per month, not a cost in relation to vehicles value
If a vehicle is in otherwise good repair then spending $3,000 for a new transmission with 3year(36 month) warranty has a cost of $83/month then $0 after that
Not many reliable used vehicles around for $83/month, lol
So its a judgment call, based on your opinion of the vehicles "use value" to you(or your son) and if you think it can last 3 more years or longer without any other major repairs

 

I appreciate that