Hello, I have a 2001 3.0 FF Ford Ranger, I had many electrical/ ECU problems on that truck so I decided to swap 4.0 off a 97 Ford Explorer I just bought for 400$ . I am hoping to swap the engine, tranny, harness, computer, etc off the explorer into my ranger. I have heard its just plug and play many times. I was wondering if I had to swap the steering column off the Ford Explorer as well due to the PATS system in my Ranger. Appreciate the help, thanks!

 

No, you won't need to do that.

Only PATS part on the steering wheel is the "wand" around the key slot, it is just an antenna to read a PATS RFID tag inside the key, so a metal loop with a wire to the PATS module, on 2001 that module is in the computer and you will be changing that so no PATS problem.

2001 may have the starter relay that was part of the PATS system, computer needed to Ground that relay after Key passed the PATS test so starter motor would work.
I think it is in the engine fuse box.

 

Thank you Ron, I haven't had any access to a computer until now. Computer overheated. Also I haven't been able to start the truck, because of that pats relay I think.

 

If you turn the key to start and nothing happens then yes, it could be that relay.

But since you are swapping the trans it could be the trans switch as well

Automatics have an NSS(neutral safety switch), it is a push button style switch screwed into the trans just above the shift linkage.
It also runs the reverse lights
The trans needs to be in Park or Neutral or the starter motor will not activate using the key, the NSS switch is the reason why.

Starter relay for PATS is on the same circuit, so either can prevent starter motor from operating.