basic ranger question

[mme43]

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

[fordfury94]

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.

[bmckay]

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.

[sp3edr4cer]

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.