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Feb 16, 2014 | 07:54 AM

Gary Frank

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Joined: Feb 2014

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New Memeber Looking For Advice

I have a 2003 Ranger 6cyl 3.0L which I have had for around six years now. About two years ago the truck went undriven for a year. When I took it out on the highway it got really hot and I was told that the heads were warped. I pulled the heads off and had them resurfaced and put it back together. It ran fine for two years with low compression on two cylinders and idled a little rough. This year I had to have it emission tested and it failed. The mechanic that I brought it to said it had very low compression CYL#1 60, CYL#2 80 CYL#3 135 CYL#4 145 CYL#5 90 CYL#6 100 I was given a quote of $3500 to have a used engine installed. I considered selling it as is, but it is an exceptional truck and I decided to just keep it. I have mechanic skills and I have some free time so I am going to take on the job myself. I want to fix it right, but I have limited funds. I am in need of advice, tips, hints, and anything that will be helpful in this undertaking. So thank you in advance for any and all replies!

Feb 16, 2014 | 11:12 AM

Phinxter

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Joined: Feb 2004

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From: Saratoga, NY

How many miles on the truck? I think before I rip out the engine I would pull the heads and check to be sure the valves are sealing. Not sure what years but some are prone to valve seats wearing down. You can use a leak down tester to help find where it's leaking if you don't want to tear down the engine. When I have heads off I check the valves for sealing by just pouring a liquid in the intake and exhaust ports and see if it leaks out through the valve seats quickly.