So you want to use a Duratec/MZR?

[H20ham]

Hello, I am part way into a few projects involving Duratecs. I figure the Ranger transmission is a good bet. Even on The Ranger Station I cant seem to find if there are different sizes, width mainly.
Hoping to make some progress before summer.
Cheers
Jim BC Canada

[Driven5]

On the recent alternator discussion, this thread may present some relevant info: https://www.locostusa.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=13325

On the transmission, the Duratec Ranger was only ever offered in 2WD and with the M5OD-R1 as the manual. Because the Duratec has a different bellhousing pattern than any other Ranger transmission, and the bellhousing is integral to the transmission, there's only the one Ranger based option. I believe the M5R1 cases are all the same, such that you can even swap the closer ratio "HD" gear set from the 4.0 SOHC into the Duratec case.

[a.moore]

NC Miata transmissions seem to be pretty inexpensive now. What is the benefit to the Ranger transmission?

[tibimakai]

I believe there are 5 and 6 speeds available. I'm using the 6. I don't know anything about the ranger one.

[Driven5]

NC Miata transmissions seem to be pretty inexpensive now. What is the benefit to the Ranger transmission?

The main benefit to the Ranger transmission remains its availability, and (to a lesser degree than before) price. I generally use car-part.com as my indicator of price and availability. Within 200 miles of me they show:

• NC2/3 6-speed: 0 available. Having to look 600+ mile away for any, I'm seeing most $1500-1800+.

• NC1 6-speed: 1 available for $1050 that just happens to be less than 50 miles away.

• NC 5-speed: 3 available for $350 (u-pull), $750, and $1250, with the closest 135 miles away.

• Ranger 5-speed: 50+ available, many for $200-$400, with 9 that are less than 50 miles away.

It seems that the Ranger transmissions outlast the trucks, so high supply and low demand. IMO that's still a pretty solid reason consider the Ranger transmission for a Locost.

However, if I were to start fresh on a Duratec Locost today, I'd probably lean towards the NC 5-speed. It's smaller, lighter, better shifting, cheaper, more available, plenty strong, and just as well aftermarket supported as the 6-speed. Both are better aftermarket supported than the Ranger unit, which is about as bulky as the NC 6-speed, won't mate correctly to the aftermarket Duratec oil pans, and requires building a remote shifter.

[tibimakai]

I found mine on car-part as well, it was $550 w/tax.