I've got a '98 Ranger, 2WD, Xtra cab, with a 4.0L engine that has 6 holes fairly evenly spaced under the front edge of the hood about 4 inches back from the very leading edge of the hood. They're about 1/8th inch, and were drilled for screws because they're not real clean and smooth like factory holes for push in clips or buttons. I can't find any parts manuals or diagrams online that show any kind of rubber seal or weather strip under that front edge, so I'm wondering if they might have been for one of those aftermarket hood shields ( I have no experience with them so I don't know how they mount). I've tried to include some pictures (don't know if they'll help at all). Anyone care to venture a guess?

the holes are right in the raised edge on either side of the 3 ribs

2 more in the raised edge

either side of the ribs, the one on the right is wallowed out a little

 

My 2002 Ranger has the same, and they are from an aftermarket bug/hood shield. They're usually held on using self-tapping screws, and that's why the holes are crude.

 

+1 ^^^

Bug deflector

 

Thanks. That's kind of what I was thinking it was but it's nice to get some verification.