drivetrain
 

noise from either front shaft (propeller or u joint). or wheel axle? how would i determine so that i don't start toss'n in a bunch of parts.

Welcome to the forum

WHAT YEAR Ranger?

1998 and up used propeller joint at transfer case drive shaft connection which did make a noise when failing, and were prone to failing
These years also used CV joint axles which could do the same, but unless boot is torn its unlikely

Earlier used u-joints on both axles and drive shafts

But for either you basically jack up front end and spin stuff to see if you can track down the noise

Thanks Ron, I'll try the roll job. Its a 4x4 2003