Hello-
I recently purchased a 2002 Ford Ranger XLT 2.8 Liter turbo diesel in Costa Rica. It really does have 22k original miles.
Lots to learn about this truck, and a lot of things to fix, mainly electrical it seemed, but on its first 200 km mountain drive the head water gasket gave at the back of the engine.

I can really use some advice on all aspects of this truck and hope I have come to the right place!

Thanks for any help I may receive (-:

 

dude post some pics!

 

Lol.. had to figure out the upload. There are some basic pics in my first album now. I am sourcing parts now, such as window motors, 4WD servo, window switches.

Hoping to learn which US version years may have compatible parts

 

Engine parts.. no US version is going to have compatible parts. Small chance you could try a ford dealership and see if they can help you.

Your front end body parts look similar to US versions, but the bed and the 4 doors is not something that was offered here.

Awesome truck you found though.. powerstroke diesel in a ranger.. too cool.

 

Hello RLong--
thanks for your feedback. I am fairly competent mechanically, but I have no experience with Rangers, and diesels in particular. It does seem to be a heck of a truck, with 22k original, so I want to really clan her up and get everything in order. I will also be doing a lot of mountain driving, and most of it is way off the grid, so I need her to be really dependable, and I want to carry critical spare parts

You mentioned no compatibility with US parts. Two questions:

1. Aside from internal mechanical parts, do you think that the engine design would allow crossover of parts like radiator hoses, air filters, A/C compressor, alternator, and other external components?

2. Do you know if there is a site to buy South American Ford parts-- other than a Ford dealer. I have found equivalent parts to always be dramatically lower in cost when I can find them.

One other question: As a Ranger owner, what would you feel to be "urgent care" spare parts to carry? Is there anything that tends to have issues often?

Thanks again-