So I want to build up my 2003 Ranger. My plan is to put a 9" Ford rear end with disk brakes and a 4.2 supercharged V6. My question is what transmission would be a good fit? It is a 4x4 with 4.10 rear gears so it has to fit and I am not super experianced at modding yet. It may not even be possible so if its not please let me know. Thanks.

 

You have a welder and a measuring tape? First you need to measure the 4.2 to make sure it will even fit in the engine bay. Then, you need to have a welder to make it fit, because it's not going to bolt in.

You also need to specify whether you're looking to go automatic or manual transmission. If manual, an M5OD from a 4.2 V6 equipped F150 will work perfect.

 

I knew I had to move motor mounts, probably the trans mount as well. I kind just figured since a 4.2 is not much bigger than my 4.0 it would fit. And ya I got a Lincoln 210 MP and I've moved mounts and done exhaust for other people cars, usually pre 60's so easy as pie on those. As for the tranny I want to keep it auto but would like to get a 6 speed instead of 5. So what tranny would be 6 speed auto and mount up to (ya probably need a custom bell or adapter kit) to a 4.2 and 9 inch rear end while keeping my 4 wheel drive? I'm not interested in a auto to manual swap btw. I want to build a sleeper. No badges, no huge lift, even put in exhaust cutouts to keep it quiet when I want it to be. Keeping my 17 inch rims and tires, factory lift as is, no lowering or raising, as stock from the outside as I can. But I'd like about 350-400 hp and a posi rearend with a 6 speed auto, keep the 4.10 rear gear, and dual exhaust. If theres anything else I missed or misnamed left me know. And please direct me to whomever/group/forum/FB page/etc. can answer these questions. Thanks.

 

You will be better off with an Explorer V8, 5.0l(302), they fit and can be upgraded as you see fit, loads of parts for these to make as much HP as you want
Explorer V8(1996-2001) because it has the low intake manifold so fits under the Ranger hood

Rangers can take a 19" wide engine, the 302, is 18.75"
Couldn't find the 4.2l width on-line, so if you have a chance measure one
21" might be doable, over that and you will have issues with
Exhaust manifolds
Steering shaft
Heater box

Height is the other issue, you can do body lifts to accommodate taller intakes, but takes away from the "sleeper" concept

 

Thanks. After looking around I think a V8 would be the way to go simply for availability of parts. I don't want to have to make a bunch of custom parts to fit it in or maintain it. Also probably easier to find a trans to go between. Heres a question could I just use a Explorer V8, F150 trans, and a 9" rear? Trying to avoid any weird bells, driveshafts or other stuff. I've seen tons of 2wd builds but not many 4wd so not even sure how far I can build it. I know the 4wd system can only take so much before it would have to be overhauled as well, and thats a step further than I would like to have to go. But I do want to retire with a Ranger that can pull like a F150, lol.

 

The Ranger 8.8" 28-spline axle can take about 350HP
The Explorer 8.8" 31-spline axle 400HP

The Explorer V8s all came with automatics, 4R70W, you need 4WD versions, they are rated 400-425HP but can be rebuilt for 500HP
You have to do a full rebuild to change a 2WD trans to 4WD
Automatics are way stronger than manuals, on or off road, and especially for "pulling"

The 1996-2003 M5OD-R2 from an F-150 with 4.2l V6 will bolt to the 5.0l OHV engine, 4WD version needed
No HP rating but 350ft/lb torque would be max in my opinion, it is considered a "light duty" trans

The BW4406 transfer case would be the best choice, its narrower than the BW1356, manual or electric shift your choice
4WD Explorers usually came with AWD transfer cases, BW4404