ive never done this swap but i have done alot of research on it because i am planning on doing this on my 2000 2wd this summer. the easiest way is to get everything from an explorer, as far as keeping it a manual thats what im planning on doin too. most people just use a t-5 but im wanting something a little more heavy duty because my tires are bigger than anything that the t-5 was designed for, im gonna get a 5 speed out of a 302 f-150 or bronco and i guess thats what youre going to have to get to keep the 4wd. but you should talk to rwenzing, he knows alot about this swap

also check this out
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech...er_ranger.html

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2000 ranger 2wd 3.5" Fabtech lift, 31"x10.5" BFG all terrains, leather bucket seats, poweraid TBS, k&n, flowmaster, 2.5L... but soon to be 302