Did Ford ever offer a 5 spd manual transmission in the E series, 92 or newer? Is it possible to use F series clutch and brake pedals? Is there enough room between the front tire wheel well and the engine cover?
Yes, Ford offered a Mazda 5-speed manual for '92. Apparently the firewall is stamped to support the clutch pedal and slave cylinder. I believe the manual vans had a skinner brake pedal to allow space for the clutch pedal. I think the '92-'96 F-series parts fit best.
When it comes to the transmission itself, I don't think it matters which you use. I would pick the ZF6 myself.
Yes, Ford offered a Mazda 5-speed manual for '92. Apparently the firewall is stamped to support the clutch pedal and slave cylinder. I believe the manual vans had a skinner brake pedal to allow space for the clutch pedal. I think the '92-'96 F-series parts fit best.
When it comes to the transmission itself, I don't think it matters which you use. I would pick the ZF6 myself.
What engine was it behind? I've searched & searched with nothing coming up for a manual tranny. Online parts stores, scrapyard databases, I've even talked to Ford about it. Nothing........
The 5-speed was paired with the 300-6. At least that's what my repair manual indicates. I don't know if it was even a regular production option. I've noticed Ford will do whatever you want if you order enough of them. I even saw a fleet of 300-6 powered 15-pax wagons for sale once, and I know Ford never publicly offered anything smaller than the 351 in that van. Another 1-off option I used to see was the power company bucket vans were an RB van on an EB frame, allowing for a bucket platform without frame extensions, and retaining the stock bumper.
Below is a thread about someone putting a cummins into a E-series RV. During that he put in a manual trans and pulled an E-series clutch/brake assy from a junk yard. It's older than 92 though, so not sure if it's any help, but the pic's might help you to see if it could be modified to fit 92+.
Having used an F250 with a 5-speed and the 300/6 I can tell you that would have been my dream combo for my van but they must be rare. I really have never seen one and did not even know they ever made vans with that configuration. That's a lovely engine: oodles of torque, not too heavy and reasonable fuel consumption.