I've searched and searched. I can find tons of threads about swapping an auto to a manual 5 speed, but not one going the other way. I've got a 98 with the 2.5 5 speed manual. I'd love to swap it to an auto. AOD actually. Anyone fine it?

 

Yes, that wouldn't be a popular swap, most prefer the better MPG and less maintenance of a manual trans.

But that being said you may find someone with a 2.5l that wants their auto swapped with a manual, and you two could spend a weekend doing the swap.

You do need the auto from a 2.5l so the bell housing bolts will match, the
4R44E auto(4-speed, OD is .75) from a '95-'00 4cyl Ranger(2.3l will match as well, '95-'97)

In late '01 the 2.3l is a Duratech so bolts will not match.

Since these are electronic shift transmissions you will also need the computer(PCM) and transmission wiring harness, and of course the flexplate and torque converter.
Not sure about the starter motor but that should be mentioned in the auto to 5-speed swaps if it needs to be changed.

The 4r44E has an issue with Separator Plate And Valve Body Gasket so if you get a used transmission that should be changed, the new parts are bonded so less of an issue once changed

 

My auto starter runs fine on my manual trans should be ok the other way as well. Going to auto i would suggest a whole new steering column there is lots of integrated wiring and tedious bolts it would be much simpler to swap the whole column in fact mine was so tedious i left the entire shifter mechanism inside mine and just put a new bezel to delete the hole. I may have some pics of the auto components laying around or if you need help i should be able to do a little reverse engineering for you.

 

Now to find someone who really wants a 5 speed.

 

Might be cool to install a floor shifter for the automatic, I am sure someone has done that.
Just the cable to deal with, no electrics(except back lighting) since the NSS(neutral safety switch) is on the transmission.

 

Floor shifter would work but you won't have shift interlock so you'd have to be careful with who you allow in the truck as far as kids or anyone that might be tempted to play around lol

 

Drove for over 30 years before the Brake/shift interlock came out. Never thought it to be an important addition.

 

Very true my neutral safety switch is bypassed on my swap haven't had any issues although I'm the only one that ever drives it the guy at my tire place tried to start it in gear other than that its good though.