Howdy. I have a much loved 94 Ranger. It looks and runs great with only 56K on it. This is an extended cab version, with manual transmission. We've had it for 5 years, but don't drive it as much as I would like due to a couple incidents. Basically, this truck does not seem to like to behave when the weather is hot.

The first year I owned it I was out on the freeway heading north to pick up a canopy for it. Freeway traffic was heavy with a lot of stop and go for a stretch. Suddenly the brakes started to stick on me. I pulled off at the next exit into a garage to see if I could figure out what was happening. Checked fluids, all ok. Went in and called the person selling the canopy and said I might be a little delayed. Then I got back in the truck and all was fine. When I got to the destination town the brakes started dragging again. I barely made it to the fellow's house in 3d gear. But after I got the canopy, paid, called a friend in case I got stuck, I bravely went home. Traffic was light and now it was cooler. With little braking all was fine. It went into the shop and they told me this was because the phenolic brake pistons. They swell when hot. I was astounded that a vehicle could be sold like this! The pistons were replaced with metal ones and there has not been an issue since.

Now I have a throwout bearing sticking for what appears to be a similar condition. It only happens when the vehicle and outdoor temps are hot. More details here:https://www.ranger-forums.com/drivet...ranger-137936/ If anyone has experienced this and has some advice it would be much appreciated. I'd love to make this truck a daily driver, but it has to be dependable in summer and not just cool weather driving. Right now we just use it locally. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

Welcome to RF!

 

Thanks!