I was looking at buying a 02 ranger and was sad to find it was only a L4. But before I totally dismiss it I wanted to ask about the 2.3 in it. It currently has lil over 77k on it. So if properly maintained how long do these lil motors typically hold out? Also any pros and cons or experience with these motors would be appreciated. I live about 20 miles up a kinda steep mountain and wasnt sure how the 2.3 would hold up maken that drive on a regular basis. I've owned pretty much all chevys in my life so Im unfamiliar with ford drivetrains but I do like this little ranger and want to make sure its gonna get the job done. Thanks for any info & advice

 

One nice feature of the newer 2.3 is that is has a timing chain instead of a timing belt. On the downside the thermostat isn't sold separately but part of an entire housing that is replaced as one unit and kinda pricey. Does the truck you are interested in have a 5sp manual or an automatic? Might want to try it out to see how it handles the hills in your area prior to purchase. I can't speak for the longevity of the newer 2.3 but the older 2.3 Lima seemed to have a long lifespan.

 

I have 214,000 on a 92 with a 2.3
and still seems pretty strong for a 4 cyln.

 

You are looking at at the Duratech 2.3 I have 109000 on my 03 with no issues. You will not pull the long hills in fifth gear. This motor needs to rev to make power and in over drive (5th) gear you are not in the power band unless you are running 80 mph. That is with 3.73 gears. if it happens to have 4.11 it would do better.