I'll start by saying whats up, as this is my first post! I look forward to learning tons from you guys and gals. Well I've decided to sell my current truck (Trailblazer), since I don't need it for family room anymore. My wife has a large sedan now, so I have my heart set on another traditional truck like I always had before the Trailblazer. I've owned Toyotas and a Chevy thrown in there here and there, now I really have my heart set on a Ranger!
I have someone coming this weekend to possibly buy my TB, so the search for the ranger will begin soon. I would just really like to know what areas to pay close attention to when test driving certain years of rangers. I have been looking for '02-'06's with the 4.0 SOHC, 4x4, and 4.10 axle. I have also considered some nice, lower mileage '97-'00's with the 4.0 OHV, 4x4. At first I didn't know on whether the manual or auto would be best, as the only towing I will be doing is a 16' aluminum fishing boat, or trailer with a ATV or motorcycle. But then I thought that launching a boat on a steep grade would be best suited to the auto, and I drive trucks at work all week that are sticks, an auto would be nice. So any feedback would be great! Any issues that I might notice? Just want to get a good, reliable truck.

 

auto 01+ 4.0 SOHC ford ranger. That's all ya need to know bro.

Since you're towing an auto would be nice for sure.

 

Yep, you're on the right track. 01+ 4.0L auto 4.10 gears.

Some of these trucks have a little bit of noisy from the timing chain when it's cold, but really no problem. Aside from the things that you should look for on ANY used car/truck, make sure 4x4 works (sometimes lack of use makes the electric shift slow), and check for play in the ball joints, wheel bearings, sway bar end links, etc. Anything loose would likely be evident during a good test drive and wouldn't be too hard to fix anyway. Just make sure everything works as it should, including heat and a/c. There are a few common little issues but they are generally easily resolved if/when they come up.

 

I've read about some issues with the electric 4x4 switch and such. Plus the timing chain(s), is there a common mileage range where the timing chain needs to be replaced? Also do all 4.0's with the 4.10 gears come with 8.8 rears? What about limited slip?