Can i get your opinion
 

I just traded my 97 explorer eddie bauer 4.0l sohc auto for a 98 ranger 3.0l 5sp. The explorer's trans was on its way out(5r55e), the a/c lines where gone and the blower motor was burnt up. The ranger's bed and hood are banged up pretty bad. The hood has a round dent looks like it was hit with a big hammer, the rear bumper is also bent up. last thing on the ranger the starter is going out. My question to who ever reads this is did i do good on the trade or not. I know it is hard to judge without pictures.

As long as the Ranger fits your needs better than the Explorer you did just fine.

It sounds like the Ranger has mainly cosmetic issues, where the explorer had major mechanical issues.

Neither vehicle is worth much from a financial stand point.

The good news is there are plenty of Rangers that are being parted out.

You may get lucky and find the body parts you need in the same year and color as what you currently have for cheap. ( much cheaper than paying to have a transmission rebuilt )