We have a 1999 Ranger, 190k miles, 4x2 that had transmission and clutch issues. The truck had been hit in the front and I guess they jumped something and pictured the oil pan then just puttyied it up (real crappy job) that we didn't see during the inspection. Also, the engine seemed to be lacking power so figured I try to find a engine/transmission deal.
I found a deal on a 1995 with a 2.3L fresh rebuild, good transmission and new clutch.
Long story short (I'll try), the clutch was not correct and would never disengage. Got a new clutch and that works now.
Engine initially started up, ran like crap and horrible white smoke. Compression as 80, 120, 118, 80. Retorqued the head, changed spark plugs because now it wouldn't run at all. Fired it up and it ran but horrible white smoke then it just died. Figure it is a blown head gasket.
Here is the question.
If this was supposed to be a fresh rebuild and it appears the head gasket is blown, is it worth replacing the head gasket and hoping that fixes the problem or does it indicate the rest of the "rebuild" could be as questionable as the package I bought? Would you just go for it?
Would you just put the original engine back in knowing it runs but will need work later?
Would you just get a rebuilt 2.5?
We've been chasing this swap for 3 days now and were successful getting the transmission fixed...at least we hope. The next direction I take I'd like to have a positive outcome and get this truck back on the road. It is my son's truck and he needs it by Monday.
Thanks and hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving.