I am new to this forum and have a few questions for other Ranger owners.I purchased my 03 Ranger 4 years ago. Had 80,000 miles on it then, now has 132,000.. It's a 4.0, 4x4, Edge, step side, fiberglass bed and hood. I really love this truck for getting into our home which generally gets snowed in. We live on a high hill in NW PA. What I was wondering is, what are some issues I should be looking for with this truck as it continues to age, I want to keep it as long as I can and so I am faithful in servicing it every 5000 miles. It had been undercoated before I bought it and I had it oil coated every few years, but on last inspection the mechanic noted the support rails under the bed were rusting out. Also right corner of bed had rusted out around mounting bolt. Common things have been replaced, like tie rods, shoes, exhaust have been replaced but little else. Oh, and left rear shackle. Have lately had check engine problem (small emission control leak) that always resets but returns in a couple weeks. Any insights and advice would be greatly appreciated. .

 

Welcome to the forum.

Reverse heater hoses at the firewall(heater core) every few years, this back flushes heater core as you drive, makes it last longer.

Shift transfer case to 4high and then 4low then back to 2WD once a month, you don't have to drive it, just shift it in the driveway, this keeps the shift motor's transmission lube spread out and keeps the brushes and rotor clean
Shift motors usual "cause of death" is disuse.

Change fan belt every 5 years or so, same with fuel filter, every 5 years

Change PCV Valve every 3rd oil change, check PCV Valve hose, on the 4.0l SOHC it would crack at the elbow, under side where you couldn't see it

Clean MAF sensor every 1 to 2 years, easy to do so your choice.

 

I ended up removing my bed and throwing it out, it rusted out completely, I bought a newer bed on CL.

the newer bed is off a 2011, and mines a 2004... itll fit, ill just have 2 extra bed bolt holes...

you could replace the spare, since its no longer safe to use

rangers will typically run forever, however mine is starting to rust pretty bad, on the frame, ill prob part with it for a F150 or similar, with in the next cpl years

 

Thanks for the info. Printer your list of to do's. will attack them asap.

 

My bed is in descent shape except for rusted out corner. and rotted bottom rails. someone told me to use highway sign posts as a good replacement when I remove bed. I can get used ones from highway department or junk yard. I'll just weld a plate into corner.