Will a 98 pcm have to be re programmed to the correct truck vin or is it a simple plug and play? I recently installed a 03 motor , trans , wiring harness and pcm into a 98 model ford ranger that previously had a straight drive in it, without having keys for the 03 PCm I can not get around Pat's, would a 98 out of an auto be a suitable rout?

 

VIN is not important for operation

Manual or automatic is important

If new PCM expects EGR then EGR system is needed

1997 wouldn't work well, wrong fuel pressure
1999 would have PATS
So you need 1998

Mobile locksmith can program PATS keys, might be a better bet than used PCM

 

Looks like having a mobile lock Smith come out is going to be the best rout sense all the 98s iv been able to find have egr and the intake off the 03 does not have egr, lock Smith will be coming out in the morning to program and cut a new key

 

I would get at least 2 keys made and added

Make sure PATS is working as it should now
With wrong key when you turn on ignition you should get rapid flashing THEFT light on dash

If the 1998 doesn't have that light then you will need to check pin #30 on the PCM, should be a dark Blue/light green striped wire there
It is a Ground wire, use test light from 12volt source to that wire
When you turn on the key the test light should flash, rapidly, wait for a minute or so and it will start to flash a 2 digit CODE

Short Video here on what PATS light should do(normally) and what the codes are if there is a problem: youtube.com/watch?v=0kBZeBbb9PM