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Not surprisingly, most people like what they have in terms of engine, drive line and body configuration. So do I.
The 4 cyl. engines have a long life. Numerous posters who have the 2.3/2.5 SOHC Lima engines report their engines last 400 K mile, given good care and mileage of 25 to 28. The Duratech 2.3 DOHC engine also seems to be very durable. These engines are not power houses, but with a 5 spd manual transmission and a willingness to use the gears, you get decent performance. If its performance you want, the 4.0 engine is the one to get.
One drawback to Rangers with the 4 cyl engine is that the extended cab has been offered in only a few model years. The extra room would be very useful to carry stuff, not people though.
On the other hand, the 4 cyl models often are available with the 7 ft bed instead of the 6 footer.
I bought my truck in 2004 with only 58 K miles on it. I is approaching 100 K miles now. My plan is to keep it for several more years. It handles well, I'm satisfied with its performance and it has been very reliable. The only regret is that it doesn't have air conditioning, but that lack hasn't been severe enough to replace it.
Good luck in your search. Rangers are durable and sturdy little trucks.
Well it took a while but I found a ranger in good condition just slightly above my budget but i think I'm going to like it. The mileage was higher than i would have liked but the truck drives nice and tight and i couldn't find anything wrong with it. I looked at few others and this one was good value to me. Provided nothing major goes wrong in the next few months I'll be Ok.
I didn't think finding a manual transmission would be as difficult as it was, the automatics definitely out number the manuals.
I drove it home today....
2007 FX4 level II, 190K (118 thousand miles for you Americans), 5 speed manual, leather seats, pwr windows,mirrors,locks, Charcoal Alcoa wheels, new 31' BFG.......I think the only option it does not have is the Pioneer stereo.
Thanks for all the input, I hope this thing lives up to my expectations.
The 4.0 is a great engine for power, however, any ranger 4X4 reguardless of engine doesn't get the best mpg for it's size, but they are an awesome truck. The 02 and up 4 cylinder ranger with a manual tranny gets between 25-30mpg and make decent power.
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