Hi everyone, Ive driven an e250-350 for the last 20 years,and am finally retiring the van and am out looking into a ford ranger.
My question is are there specific years/models I should avoid, im narrowing it down to a 2000-2004 4wd.
Thanks in advance

 

FWIW, I'm in the middle of a major rebuild of a 2000 XLT 4x4. 2000 was a transition year so when it came time to do things like set the Cam Sensor my 4.0 engine required the 3.0 alignment tool. The master engine kit had some gaskets that didn't fit and I had to try twice to get the right timing gear set.

All of these are solvable puzzles, but I wouldn't knowingly buy another transition year engine.

And, with that said, I would, and might, buy another Ranger. I really like the combination of size and versatility.

Ron

 

Thanks Ron, I actually had a couple 2000 rangers on my radar that seemed way cheaper then they should be. 2 of the 3 had rebuilt engines as well.

 

Find one with a complete service history from new if possible and of course the lower mileage the better, have buddies who have the 4.0 v6 and really like them

 

So the only thing I could find in my price range ,is a 2002 ranger xlt 4x4 with 188,000 miles.....$3200....

 

Driton: "So the only thing I could find in my price range ,is a 2002 ranger xlt 4x4 with 188,000 miles.....$3200...."

$3200 seems rather high, due to the mileage. Rangers like these do seem to hold their value, I can't find too many cheaper than this where I live.

You might consider extending your search to ones a little older. Sometimes you can find lower mileage ones. Just a thought.

I have a 1994 Ranger XLT 4.0 OHV 4x2 and it has been an excellent vehicle. I've driven it for over 15 years now. Granted, I don't drive near the national average. She has 193,500 miles. She's worth more than $2500 to me, but probably not to anyone else! I won't get rid of her until I absolutely have to.

Be patient and keep looking if you can. Good Luck.