1986 Ford Ranger Manuel Transmission Swap

[TSS246]

I have a 1986 Ranger 2.9l V6 4x4 with the Mitsubishi FM145, I need a new trans and instead of rebuilding the FM145 I was thinking of upgrading to the Mazda M5OD trans since it should be a straight forward process. My questions are, will the transfer case bolt up to the M5OD, is the length of the trans the same or will I need new driveshafts, and is there any other problems I should expect. Thanks in advance to anyone that can help!

 

[TSS246]

Also I should mention I have the BW1350 Transfercase with the electronic shifting.

 

[gaz]

@TSS246 ,
As long as both transmissions are set up for 4 wheel drive (same output shaft) the drive shafts lengths are the same. The same is no true of the flanges; you will need to swap your driveshaft flange on the transfer case side.

 

[TSS246]

@gaz

@TSS246 ,
As long as both transmissions are set up for 4 wheel drive (same output shaft) the drive shafts lengths are the same. The same is no true of the flanges; you will need to swap your driveshaft flange on the transfer case side.

Sorry im a little confused, I was planning on reusing my BW1354 transfer case on the new transmission. Why would I need to change the flange?

 

[gaz]

@TSS246 ,
My mistake, I failed to digest your statement.

As long as both transmissions are/were from a 4 wheel, the transmissions are the same length.

 

[tw205]

I have a 1986 Ranger 2.9l V6 4x4 with the Mitsubishi FM145, I need a new trans and instead of rebuilding the FM145 I was thinking of upgrading to the Mazda M5OD trans since it should be a straight forward process. My questions are, will the transfer case bolt up to the M5OD, is the length of the trans the same or will I need new driveshafts, and is there any other problems I should expect. Thanks in advance to anyone that can help!

The M50D is longer than your FM145. Your transfer case will bolt on. Driveshafts from a truck with a FM146 or A4LD will be the correct length for the M50D