Congrats on the new truck! For a tonneau try Versacover, I have one and love it!
http://www.versacover.com/

 

The Versacover looks very interesting not only because it looks good but because it appears that the appearance rails that came with my truck can be attached to it … once I figure out how to remove them.

The rails are apparently not removable as has been suggested here. Attachment points to the truck are between the inner and outer walls of the bed. The rails are held by some vinyl fittings which seem to have slots for a screwdriver and can be pryed apart but I am going to check with Ford about this. I like it that the Versacover does not require drilling. On the other hand, having multiple entry points as other models do is nice.

Has anyone noticed an improvement in gas mileage once a tonneau cover is installed?

 

I have used "Sungtop" tonneaus on my '97 and '99 Ranger. They are not cheap but very easy to install and use. Completely waterproof. They will paint to match your truck exactly.
I appreciate all the comments on the '04 Ranger. I really want one now.

 

Houkster...www.stainlesssteelbrakes.com sells a bolt up disc brake conversion for $699. Just order that. And no, a cover won't improve gas mileage. Some studies done at universities have shown that it can actually have a negative effect. But it will keep your stuff dry! I used to have one when I was driving back and forth from college.

 

The great thing about the Versacover is strength vs weight. It is much stronger than a fiberglass cover [my 200 lb *** can walk on it], yet only weighs 42 lbs.

 

I was surprised that disc brakes were available at $700. I have e-mailed SSB to see if their A114 kit also is applicable to the 2004 since they only indicate that only models through 2002 may use the kit. I also inquired whether they have an upgrade rotor for the front discs on the Ranger.

I have been impressed with the accessibility the Versacover provides and if someone 200 pounds or more can walk on it, that's saying something so I am beginning to investigate.

About fuel mileage: Since I'm just getting into this issue, I don't have an opinion yet. Nevertheless, I believe Click 'n' Clack, like WXboy, also had the opinion that a cover would not help gas mileage. C 'n' C's theory was that once the air pressure inside the box equals the pressure of the air trying to enter the box, the air will just skim off the top. I hope I have that right.
Versacover, on the other hand, has something to say about gas mileage: Since I need a cover, regardless of MPG, I just have to take my chances.

I've got a letter into Versacover concerning the chrome bed rails that came with my truck and whether they may safely be attached to the cover. We'll see what they say. If the answer is yes, a Versacover is very possibly in my future.

 

Just installed a Versacover tonneau top and it looks great. It has a very low-key but elegant look. Installation was pretty easy, even doing it by myself. Wiping it down with 303 as they recommended produced a beautiful satiny shine. It opens and locks easily. Since the cover overlaps the tailgate, it is effectively locked. It was worth the money. Mark, at Versacover, was patient with all my questions.

RE Stainless Steel brakes: They have not responded to two e-mails. Not very encouraging to a serious prospective customer.

 

1. I believe the 4.0 OHC V6 will be one of several engine options in the 2005 Mustang.
2. I have heard this engine is somewhat maintenance sensitive but can't remember the details. Using full synthetic oil, changing oil at 3 months or 3,000 miles, following Ford's oil viscosity guidance--these strategies will pay off in the long run.

 

The Mustang will use the 4.0L SOHC V-6. Here's what I found:2005 Mustang.