Ford Ranger - what are the problems ?
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From: Winnipeg
Ford Ranger - what are the problems ?
Son considering along with other types of vehicles. He would probably look at the 2WD with 2.3 and either trannie- std. or automatic. 2008 or 1009. Anything to avoid problem wise ?
Understand the Ford 2.3 4 cylinder is a great little engine, very economical , reliable and durable, that goes on and on without difficulty, like the Energizer Bunny. Is this true ?
He may look at 4WD, but then I guess he would need a V6. heard the 3 liter V6 is a little short of oats and eats gas, but the 4 liter V6 is quite a powerhouse, but eats gas? Is this right?
Looking for the good, bad the ugly so I can let him know to make an informed decision.
Thanks Les
Understand the Ford 2.3 4 cylinder is a great little engine, very economical , reliable and durable, that goes on and on without difficulty, like the Energizer Bunny. Is this true ?
He may look at 4WD, but then I guess he would need a V6. heard the 3 liter V6 is a little short of oats and eats gas, but the 4 liter V6 is quite a powerhouse, but eats gas? Is this right?
Looking for the good, bad the ugly so I can let him know to make an informed decision.
Thanks Les
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2005
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The 2.3 duratec is a very reliable and economical engine. The 3.0 isn't woth getting, the 4.0 is the 4x4 engine of choice. A true 4x4 system creates weight and drag reguardless of engine. However on my 4.0 4x4 with manual trannies, I've been able to average around 20 mpg local and 24 highway. The average with the automatic seems to be around 18 mpg local. You won't go wrong with a ranger, it's a tough nut in what ever form you get.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2005
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Also the ranger is an old design, the problems have been worked out eons ago. The 98-2000 ranger 4x4's used a pulse vacume hub system that was problematic. However AVM designed a set of manual hubs for these years that work like a charm and only cost around 100.00$. Other than that , it's a sound tried and true plateform.
