The 97 Ranger is my everyday driver, I have a Miata that I have been upgrading so that brings out these questions.

I notice coil over suspension...struts or shocks?

I have put Koni shocks on the Miata, unbelieveable handling improvement, are these made for Rangers? (Understand that I get Miata parts from parts dealers that are Miata only so I do not cross reference, there's no need).

If no Koni's, what is the recommeded handling improving shock? I have started to Auto-X (p/u classification is WIDE open) so stiffening up the suspension and lowering the COG is important.

I "assume" (haven't looked yet) I have OEM suspension on the truck, how long should these last...in miles? I'm at 70K now, 3rd owner, it's been a chick truck---

How much will it cost to swap out 14" stock wheels for 15" stock? Is there a resale market for the 14" wheels?

Without going to R compound or special stickies, a recommendation on a good tire that'll have to go both street and course? My Miata brethren lean towards Toyo's, Kuhmo's, and Dayton's---no Firestone (darn POS!) ever!

thanx for the help---

Have you tried the Sport truck forum? Many of your Q's would be applicable there. I assume your truck is a 2WD, there shouldn't be much difference between Rangers and Explorers.
My thoughts on a couple of your Q's - your shocks, if original, are shot, but you're going to replace them anyway. The coils and leaf springs should still be good, but to lower the truck, you might want different coils, and take the block out from the leaf springs. You should be able to find stock 15" rims fairly cheap, and for the same reasons, your 14" rims won't be worth much. I've got my stock 15" rims that I would sell cheap, but the shipping would kill you. (I'm in CA)

Good luck!