1987 Ford Ranger Manual Shifter

The 1987 Ford Ranger manual shifter is part of the M5OD-R1 5-speed manual transmission system used in 2WD and 4WD models. This shifter assembly includes the shift lever, shift boot, shift knob, and internal linkage components that connect to the transmission. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and replacement procedures.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Maintenance Procedures 7. Troubleshooting 8. Replacement Parts 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Common Issues

Features at a Glance

Key components: Shift lever assembly, shift boot, shift knob, internal linkage, transmission connection points.

Feature	Description
Shift lever	Chrome-plated steel with rubberized grip section
Shift boot	Black rubber or vinyl dust and noise cover
Shift knob	Threaded plastic with shift pattern imprint
Internal linkage	Connects shifter to transmission shift rails
Bushings	Nylon or rubber for smooth shifting operation
Retaining clips	Spring steel clips for secure assembly
Shift pattern	5-speed H-pattern with reverse left and up
Mounting points	Bolts to transmission housing or floor pan

Installation

Remove old shifter and inspect transmission opening.

Clean transmission opening: Remove debris and old gasket material.
Install new shifter assembly: Align with transmission mounting points.
Secure mounting bolts: Torque to 18-22 ft-lbs (24-30 Nm).
Install shift boot: Position over shifter and secure to floor pan.
Attach shift knob: Thread clockwise until snug.

WARNING! Ensure transmission is in neutral before installation. Use thread locker on mounting bolts.

Operation

Proper shifting technique for smooth operation and longevity.

Clutch operation: Fully depress clutch pedal before shifting.
Shift pattern: Follow H-pattern - 1st gear: left and up, 2nd: left and down, 3rd: center and up, 4th: center and down, 5th: right and up, Reverse: left and up (with collar lift).
Smooth engagement: Avoid forcing shifter into gear.
Reverse gear: Lift collar on shift knob before engaging.

CAUTION! Do not rest hand on shifter while driving. Avoid aggressive shifting.

Specifications

Transmission: M5OD-R1 5-speed manual
Shift lever length: 8.5 inches from boot to knob
Thread size: 5/16-18 for shift knob
Mounting bolts: 3/8-16, 4 required
Shift boot material: Black rubber or vinyl
Lubrication: Transmission fluid provides internal lubrication
Torque specification: 18-22 ft-lbs for mounting bolts
Weight: 2.8 lbs complete assembly

Controls and Components

Shift lever assembly connects directly to transmission shift rails.

External components: Shift knob, shift boot, floor mounting plate.

Internal components: Shift rails, interlock pins, shift forks, detent springs. Shift pattern: Reverse (up-left), 1st (down-left), 2nd (down-center), 3rd (up-center), 4th (up-right), 5th (down-right). Reverse lockout: Lift collar on shift knob to engage reverse.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures smooth shifting and prevents wear.

Inspect shift boot: Check for cracks or tears every 6 months.
Lubricate linkage: Light grease on pivot points annually.
Check mounting bolts: Verify torque every 12,000 miles.
Inspect shift knob: Ensure tight and not stripped.

Tip: Use synthetic grease for lubrication. Replace worn bushings immediately.

Troubleshooting

Common shifting issues and solutions for 1987 Ford Ranger.

Hard shifting: Check clutch adjustment and transmission fluid.
Gear grind: Verify clutch disengagement and syncromesh condition.
Loose shifter: Inspect bushings and mounting bolts.
Stuck in gear: Check shift linkage and interlock mechanism.
Noise: Inspect shift boot and internal components.

WARNING! Address shifting issues immediately to prevent transmission damage.

Replacement Parts

Common replacement components for manual shifter system.

Part	Part Number	Description
Shift lever assembly	E7TZ-7210-A	Complete shifter with internal components
Shift boot	E7TZ-7277-A	Rubber dust and noise cover
Shift knob	E7TZ-7213-A	Threaded plastic knob with pattern
Bushing kit	E7TZ-7A098-B	Nylon bushings for shift linkage
Mounting bolts	N800554-S100	3/8-16 x 1 inch, 4 required

Care & Cleaning

Clean shifter components regularly for optimal appearance and function.

Use mild soap and water for shift boot and knob. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage rubber or plastic. Wipe shift lever with damp cloth. Lubricate pivot points with light grease during cleaning.

CAUTION! Do not use silicone sprays on shift knob. Avoid excessive water near transmission opening.

Regulatory Information

Original equipment manufacturer specifications. Meets FMVSS standards for manual transmission controls. Copyright © 1987 Ford Motor Company. Replacement parts should meet OEM specifications. For technical support, contact Ford Customer Service Division or authorized dealerships.

Common Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Loose shifter	Worn bushings/bolts	Replace bushings; tighten mounting bolts to spec.
Hard to shift	Low fluid/worn syncros	Check transmission fluid; inspect syncromesh rings.
Gear grind	Clutch not disengaging	Adjust clutch cable; check master cylinder.
Stuck in gear	Linkage binding	Lubricate linkage; check for obstructions.
Noise from shifter	Worn components	Inspect and replace worn bushings or levers.

Reset: Re-center shifter in neutral position if misaligned.

Service: Consult Ford dealership for technical assistance.