Found the following TSB when researching the rough engagement I sometimes get when putting my 08 into drive or reverse. It always has done it so I figured it's just a peculiarity of the drive train. It is, because it's a ECU controlled aspect to begin with and may be fixable.
So for now I'm just going to post up this TSB in case anyone else is researching this issue. I can't seem to get a day off of work save for Sunday so I can't verify anything yet.





A/T, Engine Controls - Delayed A/T Engagement TSB 10-2-4
02/15/10
5R44E/5R55E TRANSMISSIONS DELAYED
ENGAGEMENTS - PARK - DRIVE, NEUTRAL - DRIVE
AND NEUTRAL - REVERSE ENGAGEMENT FORD:
2007-2010 Ranger ISSUE
Some 2007-2010 Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.3L engine and 5R44E transmission or 4.0L engines and 5R55E transmission may exhibit a delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive, Neutral to Drive and/or Neutral to Reverse. ACTION
Reprogram the powertrain control module (PCM) to the latest calibration using IDS release 64.10 and higher or 65.01 and higher. This new calibration is not included in the VCM 2010.1 DVD. Calibration files may also be obtained at the website. NOTE SEVERAL DAYS OF DRIVING ARE REQUIRED FOR THE TRANSMISSION TO FULLY ADAPT. WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage
IMPORTANT : Warranty coverage limits/policies are not altered by a TSB. Warranty coverage limits are determined by the identified causal part. OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME

100204A 2007-2010 Ranger: 0.3 Hr.
Reprogram The PCM (Do
Not Use With Any Other
Labor Operations) DEALER CODING CONDITION
BASIC PART NO. CODE

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08 4.0 Sport 4x4
Stock