I have a 2002 2WD 4.0 EXT Cab XLT with 120k on the clock. The thing runs and drives like new. No real issues.

I am heading in for new tires and shocks this weekend, plus a tranny fluid change.

Any other items I need to look at? Wheel bearings, IDK what else?

What are some maintenance items I should look at to get another 50k out of the truck?

Spark Plugs were done a year ago, so they are good.

 

• Grease the driveshaft splines.
• Change the rear diff oil.
• Check all front end/steering joints for slop.
• Change the brake fluid.
• Change the coolant.
• Change the power steering fluid.

There's probably more, but that's just off the top of my head....

 

Service schedule for 2002 is online. Search Ford for owners manuals.

 

On my '04 Ranger XLT 4.0 I asked the shop to change my spark plugs for new platinum plugs. This was at 49,000 miles and I have 53,000 now. On changing the plugs the service manager (He was a former student in one of my classes as his son is now in my Psychology class.) recommended changing the plug wires. Bought the pickup in January of 09 with 38,000 miles. It was always garaged and it sat for long times between outings. (great condition) For some reason the original plug wires and spark plug boots had cracked. -- I also had a transmission flush because I trailered from Indiana to Colorado and the mountains last summer to the MG event in Breckenridge. Although there was no indication of need, I also had new brake pads and the shop turned the rotors. Again, I thought these were things I should do because of trailering with it. I have added a 'superspring' kit to the rear springs and Monroe load leveler shocks to the back. - A couple of things I would suggest for your Ranger at 120K miles would be an oxygen sensor (if not already changed), brake pads (go ceramic or metallic - OEM Ford pads dust badly), and (odd item here) lower the spare wheel and grease or oil the cable. It is a pain in the tail if you need the spare wheel and then you cannot bring the carrier bar back up because of a rusty / crusty retract mechanism. Good luck. Hope you get better mileage than I do. It is about 17 mpg routinely and 15 or less when trailering the MG. - We are off to Canada with it and the MG later this week. We'll be the recovery vehicle for anyone in our convoy who might break down.