Thinking of buying a used Ranger

[Mac626]

Hi everyone, I thought I'd get some info from the horse's mouth, so to speak. I am planning to buy a small truck for everyday use, mostly to and from work. The Ranger made my short list, so I thought ask for opinions and advice on what to check on a used one before I go on the hunt.

I want to spend about $4000 or less.

Thanks,

Mac

[rum runner]

Ford Ranger bodies are tough and durable. The a/c system definitely needs to be checked on a used one. This is a weak point. The extended cab trucks ride better. The 4.0 engine (hard to find) gives a lot of power. MPG not bad.

[Mac626]

Originally Posted by rum runner

Ford Ranger bodies are tough and durable. The a/c system definitely needs to be checked on a used one. This is a weak point. The extended cab trucks ride better. The 4.0 engine (hard to find) gives a lot of power. MPG not bad.

Thanks the info - I'll make sure I have the AC checked out before I buy.

[andrewr164]

Also check for a leak on the passenger floor where u put your feet. Mine and my friends ranger has the same problem. Just another thing to lokk for. Good luck

[Mac626]

Originally Posted by andrewr164

Also check for a leak on the passenger floor where u put your feet. Mine and my friends ranger has the same problem. Just another thing to lokk for. Good luck

Thanks Andrew. Was that a leak from outside, or a heater core issue?

Thanks,

Mac

[Psychopete]

Originally Posted by Mac626

Hi everyone, I thought I'd get some info from the horse's mouth, so to speak. I am planning to buy a small truck for everyday use, mostly to and from work. The Ranger made my short list, so I thought ask for opinions and advice on what to check on a used one before I go on the hunt.

I want to spend about $4000 or less.

Thanks,

Mac

If it's a to and from work deal, get the 2.3L. Good fuel ecomomy, and these little engines have been around a long time. Not too much goes wrong with them. Not like the 2.9L. They're slow, but probably not much slower than the 3.0L. A 4.0L would be ideal, but these sometimes have lower intake gasket issues.

Look for water in the oil. (snot around the oil cap, on the dipstick.) If found, check the coolant while it's running and see if you spot any bubbles.
Smell the transmission fluid if it's an auto. Make sure it doesn't smell like it's all burnt up.
Listen for loud ticks and klunks, always get an opinion from someone you can trust. It's always good to get a second opinion.

Pete

[Mac626]

Originally Posted by Psychopete

If it's a to and from work deal, get the 2.3L. Good fuel ecomomy, and these little engines have been around a long time. Not too much goes wrong with them. Not like the 2.9L. They're slow, but probably not much slower than the 3.0L. A 4.0L would be ideal, but these sometimes have lower intake gasket issues.
Pete

Thanks for the engine size tips. It would mostly be for to and from work and the occasional haul from Lowes or to the beach. I'll make sure it's a 2.3L.

Is the engine size on a valve cover or on a sticker under the hood somewhere, or will I need to check the VIN?


Mac

[Psychopete]

Originally Posted by Mac626

Thanks for the engine size tips. It would mostly be for to and from work and the occasional haul from Lowes or to the beach. I'll make sure it's a 2.3L.

Is the engine size on a valve cover or on a sticker under the hood somewhere, or will I need to check the VIN?


Mac

I'm not saying that any of the other engines are not reliable, but it just seems that the 2.3L doesn't have too many issues. It's seen it's use, they're been around for a long time. I was just pointing out that the repair factor seems higher for the higher displacement motors. You really shouldn't look at just the engine, you could get a Ranger with a 2.3L that has serious engine issues and not know it. My friend has a 1996 Ranger 2wd 2.3L that he used to haul his little john boat around in. We have had no problems. He frequently fishes at lakes around 50 - 60 miles away (spring/summer/fall). Although, my 2.9L Ranger did make it to Florida, non-stop 17 hour trip. 3 months later it developed low oil pressure and a lifter tick. Rebuilt, and is running again. This repair would have cost someone some cheese.

The 2.3L has been around... Not sure exactly how long. Late 60s/Early 70s?
1989 2.3L added 4 more spark plugs and distributor less ignition system. 1995 2.3L was revised to increase smoothness and flow. Extra 10 h.p.
The 2.9L was used in 86-92 (sometimes in 93s)
The 3.0L was used in 1993 and up
I think they started using the 4.0L in Rangers in 1990 and was optional.

You'll more than likely run into the 2.3, 2.5, 2.9, and the 3.0.

I would have it checked out by someone before buying it. It sucks getting hosed, it's worth the trouble.

Pete

[Mac626]

Originally Posted by Psychopete

The 2.3L has been around... Not sure exactly how long. Late 60s/Early 70s?
1989 2.3L added 4 more spark plugs and distributor less ignition system. 1995 2.3L was revised to increase smoothness and flow. Extra 10 h.p.
The 2.9L was used in 86-92 (sometimes in 93s)
The 3.0L was used in 1993 and up
I think they started using the 4.0L in Rangers in 1990 and was optional.

You'll more than likely run into the 2.3, 2.5, 2.9, and the 3.0.

I would have it checked out by someone before buying it. It sucks getting hosed, it's worth the trouble.

Pete

I agree. I've already made arrangements with a mechanic to have it checked out if find one I like.

Thanks,

Mac