Just picked up a 99 Ranger that’s gunna need some good lovin’
For starters, I’m a welder but im not really... mechanically inclined
its got 148k on it, motors been rebuilt, but im bound to be replacing some oem parts here and there, its a project!

It runs pretty good as far as the engine goes which could just be my imagination considering the serpentine belt is screaming at me and could be drowning out any unsatisfactory sounds coming from the motor lol. Put a little water on the belt and it stopped for a bit so im thinking(hoping) its just the belt thats worn/strecthed/dry rotted and because of the fact that it looks in bad shape, I can see grooves/lines on whats supposed to be smooth side as if it has pushed through the back. Will change that out tomorrow after work.

So, the truck sat for a while so i’m probably gunna need to flush the radiator for sure but open to other suggestions on what else to check/flush/tune up etc. because of that.

Another thing is something to do with power steering? Steering wheel creaks/groans when turning, I checked the power steering fluid and it was full, but it was like a dark chocolate milk color and i guess that could be from sitting so long, with water getting inside making it gunky and corroded idk

Suspension is pretty creaky too, wondering if there’s areas i could grease to at least help that until i get some new shocks etc.

Other than these things that i’ve noticed it seems pretty good. The paint is faded along the roof and hood, and clear coat chipping off along the bed and front quarter panels. Will eventually repaint it later myself since i have access to a shop with a full paint booth and all. Lots of (ideas) as far as stereo, subs, lifts, wheels, etc. but again its a project haha