i just bought a new 3.0 crate motor and a 4wd drive frame for my 02 ranger. can i use my 2wd 5R44E transmission , and just change my output shaft and tail housing so it could work with a transfer case?

 

Can yes, but you have to rebuild the transmission to install new 4WD output shaft, so you may not want to.
If 2WD trans is in good condition sell it and use that money for 5R44E 4WD transmission

 

Thank you I was going to have it rebuilt if all I need was a different output shaft

 

I've heard a lot of mixed experience with rebuilt transmission. Either they last or they tear up very quickly

 

This is very true, often transmission shops do a "soft parts" rebuild, this will almost ensure trans will fail within 2 years, often just over 1 year(warranty).

From Gloria Roosen:
"When having an A4LD rebuilt, there are a couple of things that you need to make sure of. First and foremost, do not let a shop do a soft parts fix only (clutches, servos, and bands).
This will almost ensure that you will have another repair needed right after the 1-year warranty is out. Other things you want to have replaced are: forward one-way clutch (always), overdrive drum (stamped tin, replace if out of round or heat damaged), pump (Ford only, rebuilds are prone to failure), and the converter (get the better converter with the improved lock-up clutch and brazed fins). Also, get references from the shop and call the people."

A little history, the A4LD is the father of the 4R44E/4R55E and 5R44E/5R55E, basically same transmissions but they "split" gears to add an extra ratio, making a 4-speed a 5-speed, very clever.
I think trans starts in 1st then shifts to OD as second gear, 1st + OD = 2nd, then 3rd, 4th and OD

Rebuilt trans can be as good or better than new with upgrade parts, but rebuilder HAS TO USE the parts, soft fix just isn't worth the risk.

 

Thank you for the great info. I've been asking several people the pro's cons. That should help me out alot in choosing the right person

 

Curious what cab are you going to be usen you said you got a 4x4 frame I'm currently in the process of putting a 2wd automatic cab onto my 03 4x4 4.0 5spd and I am wondering what I would have to do as far as wiring harness goes for 4x4 can I just get a automatic 4x4 with a manual transfer case and bolt it up plug into the 2wd cabs harness and go ???