hello all!!
I just bought a little ranger.

2004
single cab
stick shift
2.3L Inline 4

I really like the truck, and it seems to run great for a 200k mile vehicle. but, there is definitely clutch/transmission problems. there is also oil leaking from between the engine and the transmission too.

so I'm planning on replacing the rear main seal, and replacing at least the whole clutch assembly while I'm at it. I guess my main question is what kind of parks do I need to get?? like brand wise? I'm pretty new to working on vehicles, and I'm just trying to make the truck drive well. I'm not trying to make a race truck or any kind of performance boosts. is it safe to assume that the standard clutch kit you can get from autozone, advanced auto parts, or o'reilly's will do the job?

after i replace all that, I'm planning on sticking the transmission back in there. and see how big of a difference it makes, before i start trying to find a new transmission for it.

I know this might seem like a bit of a dumb question. haha but I'm new to being a drive way mechanic and, I really like my truck I'm trying to make it better, not ruin it haha

oh! also second question. does anyone know of a more in depth repair book for my truck? I got one from Haynes but, it looks like its mostly just how to change oil/fluids and breaks and not much else.

I got lost of other questions about this project. and I'm sure I will come up with a ton more on the way. I guess you could say, I got on this forum looking for some ranger mentors, to help guide me through my new ranger life. haha

 

The clutch kits from the local auto parts stores will work fine. I learned the hard way that even the name brand "quality" stuff is the same as what you get at the local parts stores. Make sure you get a new slave cylinder and replace it while you're in there. Try to buy one with a black rubber boot, the boot helps keep dust and debris from damaging the seals for the slave cylinder in the hopes they will last longer.

Also, watch this video to learn how to bleed the clutch in these trucks. Follow it word for word as it's the only way you can guarantee there will be no air in the system.

 

great thank you!

also, throw out baring. is there a stand alone one on the hydraulic clutch set up? or is it built into the slave cylinder unit?

 

It's held in with a circlip if I remember correctly. So technically it is replaceable by itself although the large majority of concentric slave cylinders for these trucks come with a new one.