I'm looking at buying an `01 or `02 Ranger 4x4 but I'm not real familiar with what features they came with. I understand a locking rear differential was available but was it stock or optional and if it was stock what version was it on? Also is there anything else I should look for on those model years? Thanks!

 

The standard lsd was an option on the 4x4's, also on the FX4 level II's, they came with a gear driven torson lsd (limited slip diff). The standard lsd is a clutch type called the trc-loc. The off road package had the trac-loc, the level II's had the torson, but just the standard 4x4 had an open diff unless optioned with a lsd. Ford didn't use the beefier timming chain tensionors on the 4.0 untill 03. The 3.0 is good to go in all years. Not all early 4.0's have a problem with the tensionors, but some do, there's a post on here now about it. I had an 04 4.0 and never had a problem, actually the 4.0 is a good solid powerful power plant to have. The only weak link can be the tensionors on the 01 and 02. If you test drive an 02 with a lot of miles and it's quiet, it have allready had the tensionors addressed.

 

^^^Good info, thanks!

 

If you are looking to buy a Ranger from those years I would find a 2003 Level II. I bought one new in 2003 and loved it. I had to get rid of it because my kids got bigger