Hi, I’m new here (obviously). I recently bought a 1997 Ranger 2wd xlt extended cab. I’ve always liked working on cars and this is my first project, so I’m gonna need help and tips along the way. I’m hoping to turn it into a entry level pre-runner but still street legal.

Thanks!!

 

Welcome to the forum

RED Ranger...................best Rangers ever made

1997 was last year of 2nd generation, but 1998-2011, 3rd gen, were not much different, most parts are interchangeable, "most"

3 engine options that year, 2.3l SOHC 4cyl, 3.0l Vulcan V6 and 4.0l OHV V6

Manual trans would be a M5OD-R1
Automatic would be a 4R44E or if 4.0l engine then a 5R55E

Coil springs up front and leaf springs in the rear, so lifting it a bit is not too expensive
If you want ground clearance then suspension lift is what you want
For just bigger tires and taller stance then Body lift is the way
Or BOTH if you want really high, lol


You can download 1997 owners manual here: https://www.ranger-forums.com/genera...1-models-3747/

Much easier to search in this type of owners manual


You can go here to get the 1997 Ford Ranger brochure: http://www.auto-brochures.com/ford.html

It will have options available in the different trim levels that year

 

Thanks for the info and digital owners manual.

Mine is a 4.0 L V6 manual transmission.

I’ve already started giving her a tune up, new spark plugs and wires, and ignition coil. I fixed/replaced the hood latch release cable, I tightened up the throttle cable, replaced the fuel neck filler hose.

Next on on my list is a new fuel filter and upgrading the air intake.

 

Don't waste your money on upgrading it, your truck came from the factory with an excellent "Cold Air Intake" system.

 

+1 ^^^

Your 4.0l OHV uses a Waste Spark system, first spark system ever invented, so talk about "old school" lol, spark is timed by the crank not the cam

Because it is Waste spark 3 coil system you should only used Regular copper or Double Platinum spark plugs, single platinum are a "waste" of money on this type of spark system, doesn't hurt, just wasted money on single coating

Your M5OD-R1 manual transmission uses ATF, yes Automatic Transmission Fluid in a manual transmission, NOT gear oil, Mercon V is recommended, uses 2.8 quarts bone dry