Hi. I just aquired a 97 ranger xlt 4x2 .my question is why my clutch pedal is so hard to push? Its like i have a lever type clutch for a mustang. I mean i have to really stand on it. Is this common for these trucks? Thanks

 

Welcome to the forum

No, not at all common

Does the pedal feel stable when you press down, there is a pivot bushing at the top of the pedal that can wear out but shouldn't effect pressure required, just doesn't disengage clutch disc fully when stopped

I would change the clutch Master on speculation, not expensive or hard to do yourself

But you can check the Quick Connect fitting on the side of the bellhousing.
Ford uses a check valve on the end of the hose that connects to the internal slave
When you remove this hose the check valve prevents fluid from draining out of the master, so valve closes tight, and if disconnected the clutch pedal can not be pushed down at all, no where for fluid to flow.

If the Quick Connect is not on firmly then check valve could be closed a bit, making for a very hard to push clutch pedal.

The Master will come with new reservoir, and hose with Quick Connect attached

There were 2 styles of Ford Quick Connect fittings, 1992/93 is when they changed, and then a 3rd type for non-Ford Clutch slave and masters, 3rd party parts
And they are not interchangeable

Your 1997 would have Fords later model BUT................previous owner may have used 3rd party Slave when clutch was changed????

 

Thanks for the info first and foremost . i will be checking this out soon as my work slows down and will give you an update when that happens. Thankyou thankyou thankyou