basic ranger question

im shoppin for a new truck and was interested in the ranger. something like a 1996 or newer, 2wd, 4 cyl, and a 5 speed. anyone who has on like this, whats it like. is it reliable? if there are problems, what are common ones? im just curious, so thanks for any replies

the 3.0 is best known for its reliability. I have a 94 3.0 with 172 k miles on it that runs 16's. and Ive never had to replace anything. Plus the fact that they now make a supercharger for the 3.0 makes it that much better of a choice.

I have a 2wd, 89 Ranger, w/2.3 4 cyl. and 5 speed tranny. It has 240,000 miles and as long as I keep the plugs clean it runs fine. No major engine troubles. The tranny was replaced at around 190,000 miles due to a seal at the top of the gear shifter that over time aloud the gear lube to sling out without my knowledge - at least until it blew at about 80mph. The lack of gear lube became oh so evident as a metal on metal grinding suddenly erupted under me. I chaulk that up to a learning experiance and can't fault ford. I should have checked my gear lube long before the tranny went.

The Ranger and it's tough Fuel injected 2.3 4cyl engine are very reliable, have sufficient power - I've towed my boat many miles with it, and OK gas mileage - 17-23mpg.

And if you get a wild hair, I've heard of people getting over 300HP out of the 2.3 liter without a super charger. Of course that's after putting $1,000 in the head and more in the engine.

If I had it to do over though, I'd go with the V6.

i have a 2wd manual 4.0 94 splash that i would not go to a 3.0 for anything there is too much of a power difference to go down.