What to look for when buying used...

[sho94_2000]

Hey guys,

I had posted a question on this board a very long time ago and you guys fixed my problem.

Here is my new question. My buddy is considering a Ranger for a replacement of his Dodge Stratus. I have found some very nice 3.0 and 4.0 Rangers around where we live for a pretty good price. What should we look for in the Ranger in general (tranny, transfer case, rear end, etc...) and is there anything to look for specifically on the 3.0 and the 4.0.

Thanks!

Matt

 

[dogfriend]

Based on the 89 Ranger I used to own, I'd look for oil leaks.

Seriously, the 3.0 and the 4.0 are better about it than the 2.9L that I had, but I would look for oil leaks at the valve covers and at the bellhousing (rear main seal). Depending on mileage, listen for valve lifter noise. I haven't owned a 3.0, but the 4.0 engines are pretty good reliability wise.

 

[sho94_2000]

Based on the 89 Ranger I used to own, I'd look for oil leaks.

Seriously, the 3.0 and the 4.0 are better about it than the 2.9L that I had, but I would look for oil leaks at the valve covers and at the bellhousing (rear main seal). Depending on mileage, listen for valve lifter noise. I haven't owned a 3.0, but the 4.0 engines are pretty good reliability wise.

Is it worth getting the 4.0? I know that the gas mileage is not really any worse than the 3.0. Another buddy of mine had a 1991 Ranger with the 4.0 and that thing was a blast. When did the Ranger get the SOHC 4.0 as opposed to the pushrod 4.0? If he can only get the pushrod 4.0, I will have him get the 3.0.

 

[302Xplorer]

If you are looking for a blast, buy the 3.0, swap in a 5.0 and a T-5.

That would be a blast!!

 

[dogfriend]

Is it worth getting the 4.0? I know that the gas mileage is not really any worse than the 3.0. Another buddy of mine had a 1991 Ranger with the 4.0 and that thing was a blast. When did the Ranger get the SOHC 4.0 as opposed to the pushrod 4.0? If he can only get the pushrod 4.0, I will have him get the 3.0.

I'm not sure which year Ranger got the SOHC. It was introduced in the Explorer in 97, so it was sometime after that. The pushrod 4.0 seems to be a lot more troublefree than the SOHC, but is about 50 hp lower in output.

 

[vervepipes]

any vehicle I buy used I bring a magnet to search out bondo