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Gunslinger
Joined: Sat Nov 4th, 2017
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I also learned, again thanks to 410, that there are transfer cases which will bolt straight up to both the manual M50D and 4r70w automatic. One of those cases happens to be a manual stick style shift, and I love the way a manual T case looks.
A new transfer case is definately going to happen, since no adapters will be necessary then. The more OEM parts that bolt together without any fuss, the better.
All that having been said, I'm tossing around some ideas.
If I go with an auto transfer case, I won't have to mess with my console at all and I won't have to figure out what to do with that 4x4 knob on the dash. I may need to swap plugs around to make it work, but it's the least invasive to the interior.
If I go with a manual transfer case, there ought not be any wires to worry about, but then I'll have a lone 4x4 switch which does absolutely nothing, lest I swap the radio bezel. Not that it's difficult to do.
As far as transmissions go, the auto is hands down the easiest to put in my particular Ranger, since mine is already an automatic and the computer is already programmed correctly.
If I went with the M5OD, I'd of course have to find one which means more $$$ and more left over parts.
I'd also have to sort out the computer's programming. It will absolutely freak out if there's no transmission for it to control. I could either have it re-flashed, or if a vehicle came with a 5.0 and M5OD, use the computer from it instead.
After that though, to go stick shift, I'd need to install the necessary hardware, including the clutch pedal assembly, clutch hydraulics, then remove the auto shifter + linkage, then find a way to route that stick up through my console, which means losing that space for putting things.
About the only bonus I can come up with for going manual is that it's cheaper to fix when it breaks, and if paired with a manual T case, you get twin sticks. I must admit, i love twin shifters coming up out of the floor.
Given how much extra work it'll be to go manual, I'll probably stick with an auto.
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1999 Ford Ranger XLT - 3.0 V6 4x4 - Loaded (Totaled) 143k. Rest in Peace, Gold Dust.