Just got a 2007 Ford ranger in decent condition with a few minor problems. I'm going to do all the maintenance and eventually modifications myself to learn. It's a 2.3l I4 engine with rwd and a manual. So I'm learning how to drive a manual too! Currently I'm going to Sinclair Automotive so having a truck to wrench on at home is good for practice before tests. Currently I'm working on the parking brake because it snapped off at the pedal. I think it may have also seized up I the drums because I don't really know if it works!

 

Welcome to the forum

2.3l DOHC Duratec is a good reliable engine, turbo version is used in the new 2019-2021 Rangers

You have a M5OD-R1(M5R1) manual transmission, it uses ATF, NOT gear oil, like most manuals, so yes, Automatic transmission fluid(ATF) in a manual transmission


Parking brake cable end came off?
That is an unusual failure

If so that should release the rear brakes not lock them up, but hard to say until you pull off the rear drums