newbie help please

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Mar 2, 2008 | 09:13 AM

mickey91180

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newbie help please

Hi all,
I am looking to buy a 1998 Ranger XLT, with 4 cylinder and 5 speed manual. My question is: When you turn the heater on the A/C clutch engages. Is this easily fixed?
Next question:
There are no back up lights, is this easily fixed?
I have no idea how to fix these items, but I could if I was told how. I just really like the truck and would be able to afford this one and not have to ride with my Dad all the time. If anybody could help me with this it would appreciated deeply.
Thanks
Mickey

Mar 2, 2008 | 09:18 AM

wendell borror

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The AC clutch is supost to engage, it works the defroster.

Mar 2, 2008 | 01:49 PM

mickey91180

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i dont understand why would the ac come on if i want to defrost or deice the windshield?

Mar 2, 2008 | 08:02 PM

jv42287

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Joined: Sep 2006

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the ac comes on when defrosting the window to make it work faster. The cool air works almost as a dehumidifier and gets rid of the moisture on the windshield a lot quicker than just blowing air on it. My honda (daily driver) has the AC turn on whenever the defrost is on and it clears the window on a rainy day almost instantly. However, i did override that so i can now turn it off. Fortunately my ranger does not have ac (i hate it!!), But it does take a while to clear a foggy window. I am not sure to how you do it on a ford, but there may be a way to override the ac when defrosting the window. Hopefully this helped a little and good luck

Mar 3, 2008 | 04:52 PM

ford_4.0

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Joined: Dec 2007

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From: Sams Valley, Oregon

I don't know a whole lot but your light problem could be a fuse or the reverse switch on the tranny.

Mar 3, 2008 | 08:21 PM

michigan66

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Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 1,533

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From: Dexter, MI

For the backup light problem, start with the least expensive and easiest solution: check the bulbs. Try replacing one of them with a known good bulb. If that doesn't do it, check the electrical connector on the backup light switch on the transmission. If that doesn't solve the problem, check the backup light switch on the transmission.

Mar 8, 2008 | 05:54 PM

mickey91180

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HI all again
sorry it took so long to reply and thank everyone but I dont have a computer I borrow my parents when I go over to visit. OK I got the truck yesterday and its a 96 not a 98. I checked the fuses and bulbs on backup lights there OK, what does the switch on the trans look like and where is it? Now 2 more problems fuel gauge doesnt work (all fuses are OK) what do i look for to fix it? also the odometer doesnt work but the speedo does what do i look for to fix it? thank you all for the help this is my first vehicle Im so glad I dont have to depend on my parents or friends to get me around now. THANK YOU Mickey

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Mar 9, 2008 | 02:04 PM

daveeich337

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Joined: Oct 2007

Posts: 102

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From: Acadiana Louisiana

changed my back up switch yesterday so I'll do my best to help. Autozone had one in stock and it was $9.99 and tax. on the left side of the tranny up above the fill plug is the switch, disconct wire harness being very careful not to break plastic clips on each side. Get out a 7/8 combination wrench and loosen it and take it out with your fingers and start the new on in with fingers, once it's finger tight snug it up with the combination wrench and reconnect plug. If yours aint four wheel drive you may have to jack it up first just make sure you support it so that it doesn't drop on you. I tossed out the reciept so I don't have the part number but watch as he/she enters your information to make sure they get it right. Over here ya got to be real careful they enter that info into their fancy computer exactaly as you tell it to them. fuel gauge is probably the sending unit, do you have a multimeter?