I'm looking at 99 ranger XLT 4X4 5 spd. manual trans 4.0 L six with 67 k miles on it for $8500.00 . I've owned full sized Fords most of my life but don't have any experience with the mid sized Rangers.
Any problem areas I should be aware of when I do a presale inspection? Is the drive train and motor fairly stout in these trucks? Could I expect to get 200 k miles out of this motor before it needs rebuild if it's maintained properly ?
I'm looking for any and all input from forum members before I make the leap.

Thanks in advance.

 

The main thing you should be concerned about are the front hubs. The are part of the Pulse Vacuum Hublock (PVH) 4x4 system that '98-'00 Rangers came equipped with.

The hub and front bearing on each side are a sealed unit, so you can't service the front bearings like you would a traditional setup. And currently there are no aftermarket manual or automatic replacement hubs for these models, so if the bearings and/or the hubs fail, you are at Ford's mercy, at least as far as the parts go.

During your test drive(s), you want to make sure that the "on-the-fly" 4x4 system engages and disengages smoothly, and that there is no screeching or grinding sound from the hubs during or after engagement. These are usually the indications of hubs on the decline.

Good luck.

 

bein a big guy i found the ranger took alot of getting used to in the room department