2002 ranger tranny

just bought it. 21,000 miles. no owners manual and the dealer is playing games. 2.3 4-cyl 5 speed manual. how do i check tranny fluid, drain it, and add to it? what fluid is recommended? no repair manuals are available yet either (i don't think). tranny goes THUNK between 1st and 2nd, and a little between 2nd and 3rd. this is my first ford ever. i love it so far, but i need a little help. thanks.

I’m not experienced with 5 speeds, but a synchronizer could not be working, could also be the clutch not adjusted right. Maybe someone can help…..

Go to e-bay motors for owners manuals.

Standard transmission oil last a long time and usually stays full.

http://motors.search.ebay.com/2002-ford-ranger_Manuals-Literature_W0QQcatrefZC3QQcatrefZC6QQcoactionZcomp areQQcoentrypageZsearchQQcopagenumZ1QQfcclZ1QQfclZ 3QQfromZR2QQfrppZ50QQfsooZ2QQfsopZ2QQftrtZ1QQftrvZ 1QQsacatZ6029QQsadisZ200QQsamcmZ6028QQsbrftogZ1QQs ofocusZbs


there is the link for 2002 Ranger shop manuals on e-bay but they aint cheap :)

I know the mazda M5R1 5spd was used from 1988-2001, not positive what the 2002+ have. Pop under & have a look at what's stamped on the case. I'd bed it's just another variant of the M5R1. You should see a large hex nut drain plug on the bottom of the case & another hex nut on the side of the case to fill & check oil level. They typically just use ATF. ATF should be to the bottom of, or just dribble out of the side fill port. You are still under the manufacturers 3yr/36Kmi warranty correct? Keep trying ford dealerships until you find one that will help you before the warranty expires. Get/keep all the service reports for record or what is transpiring! This could also just be a worn universal joint on the driveshaft. Just a thought.
G/luck
Joel

I was looking at TSBs on my '02 Ranger and saw several on this. This is a problem that Ford is aware of and the dealer should take care of it. You can find the TSBs on Edmunds if you want to check it out.