i am the proud owner of a '95 ranger xl, regular cab,5 speed 2.3L, 4x4 stock set up,and i love my truck...i bought the ranger for $2300 in july '06 and put a brand new $1000 shell and i custom built a carpet kit for it, about $225 in materials alone...i only had to put a few hundred dollars in it to make it mechanically sound..a used front left brake sensor cable $20, 8 new spark plugs $50, new fluids for diffs, tranny and transfer case $130 by others, a new charchoal box $100?, new gabrial front shocks with new gabriel coilover rear shocks to help with the tools load and it only drops 1" fully loaded and rides firm but nice $150,and a broken rear brake clip, a few cents...the brakes and tires were new...i have a lot a good things to say about my little truck, a.k.a. "the squirrel"...
there is a few problems i haven't figured out and i am dyeing for some help... first, i have a haynes book and can't find what i need...1)the horn don't work and i can't find where to look for the horn, 2) the high/low beam flashes for passing but is only in high i think,or low and i need to know what to do to troubleshoot this...is it in the turn signal arm or somewhere else? ford dealership parts dept has no idea, 3) i hate the headlamps all faded and yes i've tried to bring them back but i would like to find some aftermarket clear lenses as soon as i get the high beam problem resolved...
i am in southern california and when i get these few problems resolved i would like to find an offroad club to take the squirrel on an easy offroad adventure to really try it out but with the safety of help if it fails...i have already had it in the light sand dunes of the high desert, it would have done better with wider tires, i had it in the snow and the tires loved the ice...so far it's been a blast...
... did i say i have had several ford f-250's over the years and still have one, my big truck, but they all take a back seat to my first real little truck...i love the gas milage, i love that it does 75 with the air on and i get 21-22 mpg on the highway and i've got it set up so i can enjoy it...i do miss having a passing gear...
now if i could figure out how to load a pic for you i would show you my truck, lmao...
i hope you will enjoy my ranger enthusiasim and will help me with this minor but headbanging problems...tty soon, l8r

...Above is one of my first entry's to this board and I must say, without the Explorer Forum I would just have not had as much fun with my vehicles as I have...This place, it's people, and especially the Moderator's rock...Thanks You for all your help...;)

...It's been 9 mo.'s since I registered my ranger on this great board so I guess it's time to do an update to my ranger registry...All the work done to this truck was done between March '07 when I joined the board, and June '07, when I started my Project X...:D

Stats

Truck 1995 Ranger xl 4x4
D.O.B. 02/95
Nicknamed The Squirrel
Cab Standard cab
Bed Standard bed-6'
Wheelbase 107.9"
Motor 2.3L 4 cylinder w/8 plugs (autolite platinum)
Intake Air K&N drop-in cone filter
Exhaust Custom cut/bent 2.5" catback w/ stock manifold
Tranny Manual 5 spd-M50dr1
Transfer case Manual 1354
Front Differential Dana35-4.10-open
Rear Differential 7.5-4.10-open
Front Coils Stock 2" over w/ F150 coil seats
Rear Springs Stock 2 leaf w/aal's and stock 2" blocks
Shocks Pro-comp ES3000
Tires 32x11.50x15 B.F. Goodrich A/T's
Wheels Stock 15x7" Deerhoof's
Hubs Stock manual Warn hubs
Shackles Custom made 8" O.C. tig welded shackles
Shell Vision-w/carpet and light
Shell Tint From Factory
Carpet kit Custom built by me
Stereo Stock AM/Fm Cassette
Headlights Crystal headlights w/ Sylvania's Holagen Xtra Vision's 9007's
Corners Crystal corners w/ Sylvania Amber's
Trim/Bumper's Paint Krylon Fusion-Gloss Black
Window Tint Cab window's 15%-Ultimate Series-Lifetime warranty
Milage 163,000
MPG 17city/22hwy

...And here are some link's to a couple of it's latest trail runs...
Pismo Beach 6/01/07 (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=188207)
Big Bear 1/05/08 (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=203755)
Big Bear 12/08/07 (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=201275&page=4)
CCR '08-Ouray, Co. (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=223321)
Crown King, AZ. 08 (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=225724)

...These are the links to the mod's that i have done to this truck...
F150 Coil Seat Install w/ Shackles (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=187201)
Painting of Trim (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=186873)
How to: Interior Lites on-Door Ajar (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190221)
Ranger Bed Carpet Kit (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=187427)
2.3L catback exhaust (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=185154)
7.5/8.8 Rear Axle Bearings (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=221037)
Fuel Filler Hose/Smog and Evap Test (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=219411)

...The "Squirrel" gets some Stealth mods for Truckhaven...

C-clip Eliminator (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=256302)
Hybrid to a true Dana 35 swap w?ARB (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=256656)
Ranger 7.5 to Explorer 8.8 w/Detroit Locker (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=259172)


Online 96 Ranger manual with fuse and Relay Diagrams (http://www.motorcraftservice.com/pubs/content/~WOTRAN/~MUS~LEN/41/96ranog1e.pdf)



Thank You for taking the time to check out my Little Truck...
...This picture is of my Ranger when I first posted and the only mods I had done in this picture was add the shell...This picture was taken on a job I was doing up in Joshua Tree in July '06 right after I bought it...The tires on it were Uniroyal Range Rover 31x10.50x15's and the lift was stock 2" from Ford...;)
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/5623/pickuplot5003oh3.jpg
...This was when i started on my suspension...This pic is with the rear coilovers 04/07 (no longer on)
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/9291/maindiderd11zr1.jpg
...Fishing up in Big Bear...08/07...Shortly after I built the carpet kit..
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/7439/bigbear025wt0.jpg
http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/7802/bigbear027ud4.jpg

...As the Ranger looks now and since May of '07..
http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/4962/indoors005ih2.jpg
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/384/exttrim005og8.jpg
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/1568/exttrim004cz2.jpg
http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/2012/exttrim001bo8.jpg
http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/3109/exttrim002ee3.jpg
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/3550/carpetkit008wu1.jpg

...These are some pictures of my ranger out playing and a couple flex shots...
http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/5937/deco7wboomer002qk5.jpg
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/6012/deco7wboomer073vs0.jpg
http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/9752/img3598mediumwe1.jpg
http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/5564/mudrocksnow049is6pa5.jpg

...Recent pics out on trail from the CCR '08 run...

...Near Moab Utah...
http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/4636/ccr024ml9.jpg

...Above Ouray Colorado...
http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/6337/ccr236ju7.jpg

...and some random shots in the snow...

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/2886/deco7wboomer583fa5.jpg
http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2308/deco7wboomer059pb3mv6.jpg
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/5595/deco7wboomer060vf1.jpg
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/8103/deco7wboomer021rb7.jpg
http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/6560/deco7wboomer001cc5.jpg
http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/7154/attachmentij2.jpg
http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/3937/deco7wboomer008xs0vj2.jpg
East John Bull
http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/9896/deco7wboomer101ql9.jpg
White Mountain
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4654/attachmentyq5.jpg

...and one of my favorites, going thru deep, icy, water...:D
http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/6789/deco7wboomer098og9.jpg

Sweet! It looks like you had a great time with it offroad in Big Bear.

...thats what i got her for originally...going thru the mountains and getting to the hard to find, fishing holes...i must say this last trip was probably the best for me up there as i had a guide and a couple locals, with capable vehicles in case i got into problems...
...the ranger was a champ and did great...no tow strap needed on this trip and it was a really great trip...:thumbsup:

...and i found these pics...these are from the pismo run in june right after i bought my Project X and had it towed to my shop, i went on this run...i had just completed all my mods to my ranger...:D

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/7515/pismo1012ca5.jpg
http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/7315/pismo1019wb2.jpg
http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/1884/pismo1024pu3.jpg

Speaking of which, i have been feeling the need to get back up to pismo. Something has got to be done about that.

Speaking of which, i have been feeling the need to get back up to pismo. Something has got to be done about that.

I would be too but right now? alittle too cold i think......brrrrrr;)

nice truck tbars definitely one of my favorites what kind of top did you put on it?

ahhh i remember before i met you, all i knew was your ranger (being it was your avatar) before i met you, i forgot you even had an explorer.

nice to see your truck getting love again. im starting to think about getting an old 2.3 ranger for gas mileage.


pismo sounds good.im trying to figure out when we're going to glamis this year. maybe after t-haven

Nice truck for sure.

nice truck tbars definitely one of my favorites what kind of top did you put on it?

...my shell is a vision...it is one maker under about 4 different names...

...right now my little truck is hating me...the alternator harness took a dump and i can't figure out why(see pics above)...:rolleyes:...and i am waiting on a harness that shipped today from kbabiak...took it to the carwash monday and sprayed her down for times...now it only looks like i went mudding locally and it is still oosing mud...around xmas time i will have time to clean it and hopefully wax it as it got plenty of trail pinstriping...unless, i run up to big bear again for the next snow in a couple weeks...i'm to busy next week to go and they are predicting snow then...:D

Very Nice Truck....Dang, we need a Drooling smiley!!! ;)

...thank you...i'm just dreading cleaning it up in the spring to reveal how much fun i've had in it this winter...:D

...updated and done....for now...:D

Thats a good lookin ranger ya got there Tbars

...thank you, it's one of my all time favorite vehicles...but i think i will need to get another one in the future to save this one from trail damage since it's my daily driver...:D

Very clean Ted!

So this is your other vehicle huh? I've only seen the other one, you know.. the one with the mismatched maroon fender :p:. Or I guess what used to be a maroon fender.

...half of the ranger is rattle can paint too....if you look at my trim paint link you will see it turned out ok too...the project X had both eb maroon fenders which the previous owner slapped on so he could sell the glass fenders before i got it but, seeing as how they were your favorite :p: , i thought i would post this just for you...:D
http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/8948/thposer4fj6.jpg

Ahah thanks Ted.

The Ranger only comes out for special occasions:p: I have only seen it once myself on the big bear run.

Hey Ted did ya ever look into the bed problem since or ?

...it's not really a big issue other than it's from over flexing on a standard cab shortbed....that's alot of twist for a short wheelbase and i don't think they designed the bed for that...from what i can gather, it's kind of common but the longbed xtra cabs don't seem to do it where mine did...they flex the bed more toward the tailgate area...:scratch:

Don't know if you'd be interested in these, just thought i'd show you anyway for the hell of it.

http://inlandempire.craigslist.org/pts/577012750.html

...thanks for the heads up, nice tires...:thumbsup: ...my alignment took my money though...:(

Id have to say this truck is just about perfect in my eyes, I wish I could have found a 4x4 5 spd 4 cyl like this when I was looking for my ranger... My 96 ext cab 4.0 auto is too long and gets way to crappy of gas mileage for how weak it seems... anyway super nice truck man!:thumbsup:

i am the proud owner of a '95 ranger xl, regular cab,5 speed 2.3L, 4x4 stock set up,and i love my truck...i bought the ranger for $2300 in july '06 and put a brand new $1000 shell and i custom built a carpet kit for it, about $225 in materials alone...i only had to put a few hundred dollars in it to make it mechanically sound..a used front left brake sensor cable $20, 8 new spark plugs $50, new fluids for diffs, tranny and transfer case $130 by others, a new charchoal box $100?, new gabrial front shocks with new gabriel coilover rear shocks to help with the tools load and it only drops 1" fully loaded and rides firm but nice $150,and a broken rear brake clip, a few cents...the brakes and tires were new...i have a lot a good things to say about my little truck, a.k.a. "the squirrel"...
there is a few problems i haven't figured out and i am dyeing for some help... first, i have a haynes book and can't find what i need...1)the horn don't work and i can't find where to look for the horn, 2) the high/low beam flashes for passing but is only in high i think,or low and i need to know what to do to troubleshoot this...is it in the turn signal arm or somewhere else? ford dealership parts dept has no idea, 3) i hate the headlamps all faded and yes i've tried to bring them back but i would like to find some aftermarket clear lenses as soon as i get the high beam problem resolved...
i am in southern california and when i get these few problems resolved i would like to find an offroad club to take the squirrel on an easy offroad adventure to really try it out but with the safety of help if it fails...i have already had it in the light sand dunes of the high desert, it would have done better with wider tires, i had it in the snow and the tires loved the ice...so far it's been a blast...
... did i say i have had several ford f-250's over the years and still have one, my big truck, but they all take a back seat to my first real little truck...i love the gas milage, i love that it does 75 with the air on and i get 21-22 mpg on the highway and i've got it set up so i can enjoy it...i do miss having a passing gear...
now if i could figure out how to load a pic for you i would show you my truck parts (http://www.car-stuff.com), lmao...
i hope you will enjoy my ranger enthusiasim and will help me with this minor but headbanging problems...tty soon, l8r



GOSH! Wish I have something flashy & monstrous things like yours! :salute:

...thank you both...:D
...it took some doing and i wish i had a pic of when i bought it....busted windsheild and no shell, it looked like your run of the mill 95 ranger...i seen some potential but i still wanted to keep it for my daily driver because of the gas milage...:thumbsup:
...it definately can do some moderate offroading too...;)

...Norcalbronco, once in a bluemoon i get up to grayton...

Graton huh? What do you do up here? Family?

...i visit friends on old farms up there but my hi-light is going into sebastapol for one of the greatest breakfast ever right on the main drag there...;)

...well, i finally had some time since it's raining to go to a pay car wash and finally get the ranger de-loused with it's second anual spring bath...all in all it came out better than i thought after the winter trail runs with only a few new pin stripes, a couple new dents to the rockers, and rock chips all over...they are still working on getting the sand out from pismo beach last year...:rolleyes:
...i would like to get time to really wax and clean it in the next month...:D
http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/6237/springbath001bf9.jpg
http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8505/springbath003kx0.jpg
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9038/springbath002eo1.jpg

hot mama thats a sharp truck!!!!!!!

uh oh, wheres the "t-bars" license plate?

...yea, i didn't disguise it...this front plate and plate mount got trashed a few months back when someone ran over a truck recap and it came flying right at me...:eek:...luckily, thats all it damaged...:D

She looks beautiful Tbars :thumbsup:

...thanks, she's got some trail rash but she is all mine and i think i'll keep her...:D...i do need to start saving to get her some new shoes...

What kinda shoes are ya gettin her?

...more than likely i will stay with the 32" bfg a/t's...i am very comfortable with it's whole current set up...for a daily driver and part time off road truck she work's well as she is...:D

...I just posted some rear wheel bearing info for the ranger...;)
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=221037

...Ranger owner's, post pics of your truck's here...;)
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=221238

...I just found 2 32x11.50x15's bfg a/t's to replace to of my warn ones pretty cheap on craigslist...I also removed the firestone spare and now I have a really good full size spare..:thumbsup:

...In my free time I need to fabricate something so the full size spare can mount where it belongs...:(

...In my free time I need to fabricate something so the full size spare can mount where it belongs...:(

Good luck with that! Unfortunately, the frame rails are too close together - a 31" tire won't even fit.

I built a mount in the bed - holds the tire vertically behind the driver's seat. Takes up some floor space - not the best solution, but it beats having too small of a spare.

...I will do my best to make it a simple fix...Otherwise, it will get packed in the back for trail runs and long trips only...:rolleyes:

...I am currently looking for new pos/neg battery cables as I finally threw a code 301, and my cables are corroded bad...:(

...But I did get a chance to show my Ranger what it could be if it ate all it's veggies..:D

http://img370.imageshack.us/img370/4964/tireskc2.jpg

I think the Ranger looks better....

tbars,

Check my registry thread. I just added a picture of my truck bed and the tire mount.

...Make room for the Ranger...:D

...I really love how I can show up to a job and always seem to fit my ranger between the Diesels...:thumbsup:...and if you look thru the shell, you will see my little one standing up on her deck..;)
http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/4587/job004gc9.jpg

The Ranger only comes out for special occasions:p: I have only seen it once myself on the big bear run.

...This was a very special occasion...:D
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=223321

I thought you said you weren't going to Colorado???? Now I'm really jealous!

Had I gone, I could have brought you my extra 8.8!

Oh well - next year. I am already planning for it - hope to spend a week in Colorado.

...Don't worry, the Ranger's were well represented and it made a good impression and believers out of people who once winced at the thought..:thumbsup:

...I got to flex her out in the rocks but the most fun I had was doing Engineer Pass in the pouring rain...I love wet rocks in the morning..The Ranger road proudly as drag in the rain and I even climbed the face of the switchback as the others were doing 3 point turns...:D

I did not know until the night before I left...I then had to reschedule work projects, get 2 new tires, and plan a trip in less than 24 hr.'s...I wish you would have been up there too..

I did not know until the night before I left...I then had to reschedule work projects, get 2 new tires, and plan a trip in less than 24 hr.'s...I wish you would have been up there too..

The night before - talk about spontaneous! That's great. Glad you were able to make it - Colorado is such a beautiful state.

Keep the pictures coming! I am really enjoying them.

...I just posted a bunch of pics in that thread..;)

...Scott B., your going to hate me but, it's time for me to post up the Rangers pic's from the trip thru Utah and Colorado...:D

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/4636/ccr024ml9.jpg
http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/6337/ccr236ju7.jpg
http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/9734/ccr231nc2.jpg
http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/8448/ccr165hg3.jpg
http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/7642/ccr102pe3.jpg
http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/9634/ccr044bn0.jpg
http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3306/ccr240cc3.jpg
http://img376.imageshack.us/img376/8009/ccr018xu6.jpg

...and a few more..

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/9267/ccr020th9.jpg
http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/756/hpim3225ya9.jpg
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/5502/ccr021ml5.jpg
http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/1093/ccr197bk4.jpg
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/6646/p1020036tm7.jpg
http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/8103/hpim3218iv8.jpg
http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/5591/ccr006yh2.jpg
http://img393.imageshack.us/img393/4697/ccr007pi0.jpg

:thumbsup: Damn I'm jealous... nice pics! I built a sleeping platform in the back of my ranger modeled a little bit after yours, guess I should post some pics of it sometime.

...Yes, post some pics of your sleeping platform and let me know where to find them..:thumbsup:

Awesome photos.

...Thanks ... :biggthump

...It takes a Ranger to get to the scenery, but that scenery sure makes the Ranger look good in pics...:D

. http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/6337/ccr236ju7.jpg

I love this pic!

....Thanks for taking us there Brian...:salute:

...Yes, post some pics of your sleeping platform and let me know where to find them..:thumbsup:

Here you go man!
http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18759

...Nice work...:biggthump

...:scratch:...Do you have a Ranger Registry here???

...and here's a link to the Ranger's latest trip to Crown King , Az...;)
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2032659&posted=1#post2032659

Did you survey the damage and figure out what's holding up your front diff yet Ted? I've been slammed with work so I haven't had a chance to get that video program together.

...Not yet...I figured I would wait for the video first...:p:...j/k...

...I did however run home and made sure the X was ready for back up duty...I've been driving the Ranger and all is well unless I need 4x4...I have been researching and it sounds like the spider gears...:dunno:

...I'm thinking when I do open it up, I'll be ready to do some parts replacing of the good kind and not just a fix..;)

...Now if work picks up, I can do some shopping...:D

gotcha, that front diff is too much work to tear down and not fix the problem. spider and side gears are a quick fix, I might have a set laying around if you want me to look through some boxes. A locker would replace them but you will break everything else when you lock that Dana 35.

I got my set of spiders and side gears you can have...

...I will gladly take your spiders and side gears as I tossed the old ones from the X..:rolleyes:

..I am also wondering for future reference if they have a LS available for the hybrid Dana 35??...:scratch:

Yes - the Detroit TruTrac. Or, should I say the Eaton Detroit TruTrac.

I have had one for many years in the front of my truck - it works really well. Torsen has one, but it is not on the market. (Wish it was - it has a higher bias ratio than the TruTrac.)

...Thanks..If you see a cheap used one let me know...:biggthump

...LS in the front, It would mate well with a locker in your old 8 that I'm going to get from you...:D

...LS in the front, It would mate well with a locker in your old 8 that I'm going to get from you...:D

I take it you are going to Colorado next year, to meet me for the axle?????

...I sure hope it works out that way...It's on my calender...:D

I got my set of spiders and side gears you can have...

I can stop by friday and pick these up and bring them to truckhaven.

That Would Be Great. I Am Still A Maybe For T H...:(
Posted via Mobile Device

I can give them to Colin or someone else. Same with your tire I have as well.

I Will Update Before Friday...
Posted via Mobile Device

...On this date in History...













.."The Squirrel" became the most viewed Ranger in the "Ranger Registries"...:party:

Congratulations!

...Thanks...:chug:

...Right now I'm looking for a diagram of my relay box...I can't find one for a 95 2.3L and I blew a 30amp fuse and fixed the problem, but I don't know what all is on that circuit...:scratch:

Edit:...Found it and added it to post #2...;)

...I was leaving the shop tonight and I seen what looked to be water from my left rear tire to under the truck...I didn't see any sprinkler water anywhere else so I bent down and sure enough, it's a puddle of brake fluid...:rolleyes:

...:bounce:...I've been wanting to drive my X anyways...:D

Good time to upgrade to rear discs...

...Rear disc and an 8.8....and a new front end....but for now, I need to let it sit till I get time to play mechanic on the brakes..:(

...A week and a half ago I had a little problem...
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=238991

...Since then, The Ranger has gotten 2 more brand new BFG AT KO's put on so I am doing good tire wise...I need to rip my Pos cable apart as it seems to be an odd transition year thing so no match found...

...and no, I still haven't done anything with the front end but I am working on replacing all kinds of stuff on my X...:biggthump

...I've been sorting thru codes on my X and finally got around to doing a much needed repair to my Ranger...:D
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2171806#post2171806

...Now that the headliner has been replaced and I have been spending all my money on the X, I have been waiting for the new registration to come in as it is suppose to be a large increase for the State of California Vehicle Licensing fee...

...I got the new registration paperwork and I am relieved to find out the registration is only $100 with the new increase this year..

...I quickly ran down to to pay it before they add more stuff (as California State is having some major money problems) and they told me I'm to early and it's not in DMV's system yet..:wtf:...I showed them my paperwork DMV sent me and they asked me to come back in a week or 2...:rolleyes:

...they told me I'm to early and it's not in DMV's system yet..

In other words, they haven't added the "You have to pay extra for the privilege of driving in Kalifornia" fee yet. Say Hi to Arny for me...

...Lol, don't even say that...That was the first thing that crossed my mind...:(

...:scratch:..Should I go to work or jump on the freeway???...I made this decision yesterday...I had to deliver a key at 8 a.m. and was headed to the shop on a saturday morning while driving my Ranger...it was already 80 degrees and was expected to be 100...

...I got near the freeway on ramp and made my decision...:burnout:

...The next thing I knew I was at RockRanger's house where he and 90Ranajo are at the beginning stage of working on the "Project R15X"...
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=245312

.....:shifty_ey ...I picked up a couple spare hubs and a switch from 90Ranajo and I left there ...

...Then I headed over to RangerX's house to see if he was hungry...He wasn't so we chatted for a while and I was off again...My next stop was Pedro's Taco's in San Clemente...:biggthump

....I drove about 250 miles with the a/c on, visited friends tinkering on their Rangers, and had a killer meal along the coast....

...It was totally an, Ultimately Awesome Ranger day, and I thought I would share....:D

How nice - you're out gallivanting around town, your biggest worry is what to have for lunch, while I am busting my butt working on my truck. ;)

I swapped lift blocks and installed new u-bolts on the rear end, and added coil spacers on the front end - yeah, I had a really good day. :smoke:

Colorado, here I come! :bounce::bounce::bounce:

...That's me, out gallivanting...:burnout:

...I need lot's of work to come my way for the next 5 weeks to make the Colorado run...It is first on my list, well, next to repairing my vehicles so I have one I can take and offroad...:D

...I did manage to sneak one pic of my little truck next to RangerX's...:D

http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/misc_0151.jpg

Oooo.... I'm jealous!

...I will sneak a pic next to your truck too..:shifty_ey...Given the chance...:D

...With Truckhaven soon coming up and both my trucks in need of repair, the thought of which truck to take had crossed my mind...

...It looks like I will be taking my DD...Since I decided that, my rear U joint just started making noise...:(

...Over the next 2-3 weeks I will be repairing the Ranger and getting it ready for Truckhaven...I need to repair/replace the battery cables, the front pumpkin, possibly the leaking rear axle (at the seals), and now the ujoint...

...I did make a stop at the 4wheelparts in Riverside and wound up leaving with my pockets empty, but for some reason they gave me 10% off so I saved about $30...It seems I haven't done any mods to the Ranger in over 2 years...:eek:...That's about to change...;)

...I have a bunch of little projects to do and hopefully I won't have to buy anything else but we know how that goes...:rolleyes:...For now, I won't post anything on the projects but after I get them all done, I will report back..:D

...Well, I spoke to soon...Today brought about a lot of tracking down small parts and I'm still looking for more...:rolleyes:

...I am happy to be back in the saddle again and working on my Ranger...:biggthump...I am better now and not 100% but today was what it's all about...I new there would be a couple little things I would need brfore I started but, I crawled under the Ranger and started noticing things I had totally forgot about...

...I did remember I need to crack open the pumpkin and see what's wrong with it, other than just being broken and the shafts floppin in the arm...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair_006.jpg
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair_007.jpg

...And then I remembered, I completely forgot all about the front drive shaft rubbing to...
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=51029&stc=1&d=1223568145

...And the busted motor mount...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair_009.jpg

...And then the...:splat:...Well, you get the picture...Anyways, I'm starting slow and cracking open the pumpkin tomorrow, just to see what surprise it holds in store...:popcorn:

looks like you got your work cut out for ya there

This is why I have a off road truck....and then a DD:D not the duel purpose anymore:p:

...This is why both of my trucks are Capable...:p:


...and in need of repair...:(

...This is why both of my trucks are Capable...:p:


...and in need of repair...:(

Mine are capable...just of different things;):p:

...This is why both of my trucks are Capable...:p:


...and in need of repair...:(

Mine, too - but I like to keep the new(er) one shiny and clean and scratch-free!

Of course, since Colorado, the '93 now has leaks at the rear pinion seal, and front and rear main seals. The rear end has 140K miles on it - I guess it's time for a rebuild. The motor? Might be time for a rebuild, too.

...The Crown King/Dana 35 Hybrid verdict is in...I will post some pics in a bit...;)

...I started the day by taking off the front bumper to work...This made it a lot easier since this thing is quite a bit shorter than my X...It worked out great and kept me from :banghead: so much...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_003.jpg

...I got the Hybrid pumpkin pulled and went thru the check list...:scratch:

C-Clip good and intact..
Spider gears good...
Carrier and housing good...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_013.jpg
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_015.jpg


...I must have missed something...:dunno:

...

...I must have missed something...:dunno:

Axle seals, pinion seal, grooves in the axles or yoke, a crack in the housing that only opens up under load...

...Other than the leaking seal...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_012.jpg

Everything else looks great...:dunno:
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_010.jpg

...When I unhooked the C-clip, it was in pristeen condition and the end of the shaft was fine too...:scratch:
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/Ranger_repair2_020.jpg

So all this time and all you needed was a shaft!

Thats a $20 fix...

...You know me...I wasn't going to open it up until...:shifty_ey ..I had a plan of attack...:biggthump

...And now I have spare shafts when I didn't before...;)...I am surprised I busted a shaft on a Hybrid with an open carrier, and not the hub...:dunno:

Good Job :D

...Thanks, I'm proud...:D

...You should have seen the face on a couple guys here when I pulled the pumpkin...:eek:...And that shaft fell down into plain view...All of a sudden I had a couple helpers who wanted in on the deal just so they could inspect it...:biggthump

So are you going to spill the plan of attack because I'm thinking a few days in San Diego means an upgrade for this front diff

...I am working on a couple of projects for my Ranger...I think I'll save them to show those who make it to Truckhaven,,,

...That way, I won't feel so bad about what mods I didn't get done by then...:D

mean your buying a new air freshener for it? :D :p:

You may not be sharing any updates here, but i did see a particular parts For Sale thread on dezert rangers that has me wondering. :scratch:

You may not be sharing any updates here, but i did see a particular parts For Sale thread on dezert rangers that has me wondering. :scratch:

Care to share the Linky Since Ted ain't talking ;) But then again i could probably get the info from Harley in exchange for a couple of rib bones.:p:

So are you going to spill the plan of attack because I'm thinking a few days in San Diego means an upgrade for this front diff

You may not be sharing any updates here, but i did see a particular parts For Sale thread on dezert rangers that has me wondering. :scratch:

Care to share the Linky Since Ted ain't talking ;) But then again i could probably get the info from Harley in exchange for a couple of rib bones.:p:

Hmm...

http://www.dezertrangers.com/vb/search.php?searchid=1262306

For Sale Ranger 7.5 with 4.10 gears
...I should be pulling this in the next couple weeks...$100



..This is off a 95 Ranger 4x4...

For Sale Expo Dana 35 beams/Ranger D35 pumpkin

...I have a set of 91 X Dana 35 beams w/ brakes/ rotors,etc., minus pumkin, manual hubs and spindle nuts...



...I also have a 95 Ranger Hybrid Dana 35 pumpkin with 4.10's/open carrier in great shape...Will throw in some shafts with this one...



...$300 for all or best cash offer...I would trade all for some heimed radius arms for a 95 Ranger 4x4...


From "Spring Cleaning Thread"

Ted must've called me about a minute after I posted that.

I hoping to be done with the truck to use T-Haven as a shake down run.

I'm on to you Ted. I'm on to you. Remember I have moderator powers and can see what Show had in his spring cleaning thread. I'm guessing 4.10 ARB in the front with a Detroit rear.

...Lol...The old magician trick...while you are looking at one hand that is up front and moving, the magic is going on in the other hand...:p:

...I bought a bunch of small stuff today and I still need more parts and more money...:(

...On a good note, I'll have some pretty good "How To's" coming out of this...:D

...I did get some .250 material today at my steel yard...It's not for sliders...;)

Pictures or it didn't happen!;)

...I will have some pics up in the next few days...;)

...My .250...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_001.jpg

...I bought it to use as a wheel chock...:p:
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_003.jpg

...Then I installed something new...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_004.jpg

...And removed some dead weight...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_007.jpg
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_002.jpg

....I bought it to use as a wheel chock...:p:
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_003.jpg

you know you can a 4x4 piece of wood at the hardware store for a couple of bucks:rolleyes::D

....I have beam ends all over to use, I just like to be different...:D

...Then I installed something new...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/3772/2_3_motor_mount_004.jpg


I'll bite - what is this? It resembles a body mount, but the bolts appear to be too small.

EDIT: Oh - I see by the name of the photo it is a motor mount.

...Sorry, that is the 2.3 motor mount...It sits mid engine and there are one on each side...For the guy who designed these, I hope he has restless nights of sleeping...:D

...I also went crazy and added this...
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=256302

...Well, the Ranger finally lost a few hundred pounds it's been carrying around for the last couple of months, besides the full load of work tools...:rolleyes:

...Tonight I emptied out all the arms, axles, spindles/calipers,and pumpkins...Now it is left with only the work tools, (and a few other goodies to mount) and it feels so different...

..^^^^...I spoke to soon...:(

....Yesterday I loaded the Ranger up with a lot more parts, found out I was missing a part from a new item's package which I have to pick up this week, and I'm down to still having to get 3 major items and then install them...

...That's not counting the items yet to be installed, in the truck...

at least the parts are small easy to load and unload just time consuming:D try figuring out how your gonna unload a 300lb. Jet ski by yourself:scratch: since my Helper had surgery not too long ago and is still recovering.

...All I can say is, next weekends project requires the use of a cherry picker...

...All I can say is, next weekends project requires the use of a cherry picker...

4.0L swap?

...Naaa, I already own a 4.0...

he needs the Cherry Picker to get the D35 pig back in ;)

...The Dana 35 was done last week, before the C-clip Eliminator and during the Hybrid thread...;)

well we know you ain;t getting a 5.0 either :p:

...All I can say is, next weekends project requires the use of a cherry picker...

Do you need a cherry picker, or would it just make things a little easier????

Ya know i had a revelation while driving into Buena Park this morning i now remember what you are doing to this poor helpless Ranger. :D

Carry on :salute:

We seriously have to wait almost two weeks to find out what is going on?! I want to know now.

We seriously have to wait almost two weeks to find out what is going on?! I want to know now.


Yup i have been sworn to secrecy by Harley. And you know that u don't mess with Harley.:p::cool:

at least the parts are small easy to load and unload just time consuming:D try figuring out how your gonna unload a 300lb. Jet ski by yourself:scratch: since my Helper had surgery not too long ago and is still recovering.

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/boa/1417286433.html

....Ok, this weekends journey...:burnout:

...I will do a build thread hopefully just before TH, and hopefully I will have this thing drivable...

...Harley and I logged 125 miles to our first stop where the Ranger shredded some stock parts...There was lot's of grinding, some templates, and some fab work...Harley laid out by the pool...:rolleyes:

...Got that project done and headed another 150 miles to where we are at now...As promised, the cherry picker will be in use tomorrow...After that, another 125 miles and we are home....

...Btw, if anybody is looking for a tranny cross member locally, hit me up...;)

...Btw, if anybody is looking for a tranny cross member locally, hit me up...;)


Because you had new one made along with new arms:p:

;)

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lgb/pts/1419073260.html

EDIT: ignore this post

....If anybody has a wiring diagrahm of the reverse lights, let me know...For some reason I have a short in the backups and keep blowing the fuse......I can't think of anything that we did that caused this but I am blowing the fuse....:(

Edit: ...Found it...It was a wire rubbing on the frame at the trailer connection...:biggthump

...Ok...A few sneak peaks for those who won't make it to TH...

...How it looked up to yesterday, before the grinding and the fab work...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/Ranger_4_TH_001.jpg

...Some of what was removed...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/Ranger_4_TH_003.jpg

...Going stealth...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/Ranger_4_TH_015.jpg

...and the last sneak peek pic...
http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/Ranger_4_TH_016.jpg

Krawlers, sweet! I notice the front bumper is trimmed too...i just have so many ideas of what you could be doing in my head, i can't wait to see it!

Just food for thought...all of your modifications are usually really practical and you seem to think them through thoroughly before doing them, but Krawlers on your DD? Does this mean your ranger will become your offroad rig? I mean, since in the first post of your project x thread, you still claim your Ex isn't. :)

Isn't that a lot of tire for your 4 cylinder?

Time for a new DD Ted, because those Tires are good as gone if your planning on DD them:rolleyes:

LOL Those tires do look good on there though.

Note the impact gun by Bob's leg
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=54981&stc=1&d=1246850388

and then

http://www.explorerforum.com/photopost/data/500/Ranger_4_TH_015.jpg


Them there is my tires.....Get your meat hooks off em.

That's a old picture at the top danny....That truck is now down at the corner 7-11 in the form of Dr. pepper cans:p:

this I know but the tires that were on that truck are heading to AZ to go on my truck and my columbo skills showed me that the "Squirrel" was wearing my shoes for a test fit.

...But you won't need those tires at TH...I'll make sure that they make the appearance...:p:

..Well, the Mods have stopped for now due to lack of funds...:thumbdwn:

...I will be hitting TH as an open 4x4 again and will still have the 7.5 in for it's last trip...My RA situation is going to be very last minute as I'm having trouble locating parts as in joints...

...I have a bunch of stuff for sale on CL and no one is buying...

...After Truckhaven '09 update...

...A guy called me up thursday night before the run from Santa Maria, and said he was interested in my 7.5 as he blew his up...This spawned the last minute hustle to install my new to me 8.8...:hammer:

...The 8.8 has a Detroit inside which worked out great with the other mod's I did for Truckhaven...I will post the swap info later this week....I however, never did get to finish the new Radius arm setup...This will be a future mod to come...Stay tuned...;)

...Went wheeling in my DD locally at Truckhaven last weekend...Thanks Rick for the pictures..:salute:

..I just installed for this trip, a cut down front bumper, a true Dana 35 up front w/arb (minus air), a C-Clip Eliminator, an Explorer 8.8 with a Detroit, and a new custom tranny cross member with poly fab brackets that are waiting on new arms and 2-5/16" ballistic joints...Didn't get to many pics of my truck but here are a few...
http://www.explorerforum.com//t_thaven_oct09/images/DSC_2198.jpg
http://www.explorerforum.com//t_thaven_oct09/images/DSC_2212.jpg
http://www.explorerforum.com//t_thaven_oct09/images/DSC_2232.jpg

...I forgot to mention....I ditched the factory 2-1/2" rear blocks and, I re-installed the 7.5 sway bar onto the 8.8, and that's the set up I ran at TH and is shown in the above pics.....

...I just added the rear axle swap info to the first post...:D
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=259172

...Theres no turning back now...I just sold the stock front bumper and spare tire carrier..:rolleyes:

...I just sold the stock spare tire carrier..:rolleyes:

Who the hell would buy one of those!?

...A guy who I may have talked into buying your deerhoofs and tires...;)

He need any other stock stuff? Like f/r springs or a Ranger 8.8" or some radiators?

He need any other stock stuff? Like f/r springs or a Ranger 8.8" or some radiators?

Hijack

think you can post up or PM me a pic of the Explorer Radiator?

thanks

Hijack over :D

...Theres no turning back now...I just sold the stock front bumper and spare tire carrier..:rolleyes:

If he needs another one, I have one I will sell. (Or give away...)