Hi , I am looking at getting a 2000 or 2001 ranger , extended cab, 2wd , with the 3.0 v6, My question is how well does this motor perform ? , Most of the rangers ive looked at have this motor , and I beleive its the one for me , just curious as to peoples opinions , on the 3.0 liters performance .----- thanks

 

from everything i've heard/read, it's a solid engine-biggest problem is that head gaskets were prone to cracking...otherwise, very decent engine w/o all the problems associated w/the 4.0L

lc

 

I have a 2000 with a 3.0L and it's ok. I think it's underpowered but it runs fairly smooth and, because I have a manual tranny, if I push it it does fine. My biggest comlaint is its performance over mountain passes. Some passes I only have to downshift into 4th to maintain the speed limit. On one pass was in 3rd with the engine screaming and could barely hold onto 50mph. Previous to this I owned an explorer and there is a world of difference between the 3.0L and the 4.0L in performance.

 

I would have to agree with the mountain pass problem. I owned a '99 ranger with the 3.0L, 5-spd man trans. I felt the truck was a little underpowered as well, but mated with the man. trans. it felt adequate. I did have to downshift just to maintain momentum when travelling through West Virginia, North Carolina mountain. I now have a 2K with the 4.0L. Man! What a difference. I have an auto 5-spd tranny with this and I also have bigger tires, but I can still peel and squeal any time I want. I haven't had the opportunity to travel too far with this yet, but overall I'd say it was worth the extra cash to get the 4.0L, but I'm not sure about the auto yet. I haven't driven a 4.0L mated with the man trans. Anyways, just my $.02.

Matt

 

I have a 2001 3.0L. If it's affordable go for the 4.0L, most if not all of the probs have been fixed and it has much better power and about the same mileage.

 

I know this answer is way after the original question, but for anyone else...Go with the 4.0... Especially if you get a/c and an automatic tranny. The 3.0 is too underpowered and the tranny is weak.

 

I bought a 2001 Ranger Edge. The engine has had an intermitant hesitation ever since new. I have talked to the service manager at the dealer and to the regional service manager about this. Both of them tell me it's normal! I have a TSB from Ford motor Co.'s website that tells about this problem. As far as I know, Ford does not plan to fix this. It is very noticeable while going up a long hill. Other than that, the truck is fine.

 

i have a 99 ranger with the 3.0
i had power problems until i got a better air filter.....now i have more power than i can use.....i don't know....but it seems like ford went out of it's way to limit the ammount of air getting to the engine....