I have 1997 plain ranger thats been good to me over past 3 years. I have no idea of the history, except I have done the ball joints and brakes and oil change with 20-50. At just over 228,000 the clutch is toast getting harder to shift into gear. When I park it on grades even in first gear it seem to move the fan sometimes and can be pushed and does same on flat surfaces. I wonder if the rings or head gasket or what could be shot that would cause this. It does not smoke, use oil ot antifreeze and has decent acceleration but doesnt like hills or highway driving much over 60. I'd be interested in opinions, because its been a great dependable beater truck with 28 mpg lately, but I dont want to spend more than it might cost for another similar vehicle.
So first ideas about whats ailing this smooth running decent engine?
Second with engine fix and time in a clutch is it worth my time and money?