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Lots of changes going on in my life and I needed to get a new vehicle, always liked small pickup trucks so started looking for a Ranger. Ended up finding a 2011 2.3 XL 4x2 fleet vehicle with 105k miles for a good price. I had the fluids replaced and a quick multi-point inspection done last weekend, and everything checked out although there's a slow leak in one my tires which is no big deal, and might be a rim-sealing issue as the leak isn't bubbling up on the tire when its submerged/sprayed. It has the most basic possible interior, with a non-functional AM/FM radio (antenna mount was broken, replacement is on the way), rolling windows, and manual door locks. In short, it's awesomely simple, but could use a little love.
I'm fairly handy, although most of what I've done is on motorcycles in a past life, and I'm working on generating a list of worthwhile upgrades for comfort, safety, and handling. I've skimmed the forums but it's a huge database of ideas, so I'm asking your help in figuring out what to drill down on and get done first. At this point, the only thing I know I'm planning to do is install a decent audio system, starting with the head unit (
Looks like a rear swaybar from Hellwig would be a cheap and effective upgrade. I haven't actually looked but there is already a front sway bar on Rangers, right?
My 06 Ranger is fairly new too me and I did all the maintenance I know was never done by the previous owner. Might be a good place to start. Parts are pretty cheap and it's an easy vehicle to work on.
Yes, there is a front sway bar. I was doing my front shocks with tires removed. I happened to look at one side of the sway bar and it wasn't connected to anything (broken link). Checked the other side same thing. Replaced the links for around $20 from Advance Auto. Funny thing is the truck handled very well with them broken and I can't tell a difference with the new ones installed. Go figure?
I lived in the DC area (Southern MD) for over 10 years. Yes, the weather is one extreme or the other but, I just can't deal with the cold and traffic anymore.BTW my taxes in North Myrtle Beach (2600 sq ft house) is $638 per year. Was a no brainer move. Good luck with your new Ranger I'm really liking mine. Had a small Toyota pick up that I loved for years but, the Ranger measures up just fine.
03-11-2019
