'98 Ranger XLT 4x4
 

Hey Y'all,
New to the group and the truck. Just got it, '98 XLT Extended Cab, 3.0 with about 77,000 miles. Had to replace right axle and hub/bearing, as well as both front hub 4x4 actuators (sp?). I'm also becoming concerned that the automatic transmission (4spd) is slipping. Esp. when starting out cold, it seems to slip some, not so bad when it's warmed up. Anyway, I'm wondering if the transmission is prone to failure on this model. Hope I didn't get myself into the wrong truck...
Thanks for any input you may have on this truck.

Frank R

Welcome to FTE!!!

You should check out the link in the tech info thread at the top of this forum about the pulse vacuum hub 4x4.

Hows the tranny fluid condition and level?

Ken, Thanks for the tip about the hub, I missed that.
I changed the trans filter and fluid when I got the truck, didn't seem to make any difference. The fluid wasn't terribly dirty, but probably hadn't been changed in a while, if ever. The concern I have is that it seems to slip in first when cold, but it may be "normal". I won't bring it to a trans. shop, 'cause they only exist to sell trannys, and the Ford dealer charges 2 hours for a diagnostic, after which I suspect they'll tell me the same thing as the tranny shop. If I knew that these transmissions are notorious, then I'd feel better about replacing or upgrading.

Frank R

I dont think they are particularly prone to failing early, but there are exceptions in every case. Are you sure it is a 4sp? mine is a 5 sp automatic.

Yup, it's a 4spd alright. I wasn't sure myself till I drove it and counted the shifts outside of overdrive. I guess I'm glad to hear there's no common problems with this trans.

Frank R