Hey guys, my name is Shaun. I live in the beautiful black hills of SD. I just got myself a 99 Ranger XLT flareside. I'm a complete newb to these little trucks, but I've always wanted one, and really happy about the truck I found. I'm looking forward to getting to know you guys and being a part of the community!

 

Welcome to the forum

Good year for the Rangers
1999 could have 4cyl 2.5l or one of two V6 engines, 3.0l Vulcan or 4.0l OHV
This is the first year the V6 models came with PATS(passive anti-theft system), this disabled fuel system unless correct PATS key was used, keys have to be added to the system using a Laptop, so you can't just have a spare key made like older cars.
But most Locksmiths can cut and then Clone a PATS key from your WORKING PATS key.

It is a VERY VERY good idea to have a spare WORKING PATS key because there is no "by-pass" for the system, you loose the key and truck will not start, period, then you either get it towed to Dealer or get a Mobile locksmith with Ford software to come out and make and ADD another key to the PATS menory

1999 is 3rd generation, 1998 to 2012
It uses a GEM(generic electronic module) to operate all interior electrics, i.e. when you turn on the wipers the GEM is actually turning them on, the wiper switch is only connected to the GEM, like all cab switches, so GEM gets signal you want wipers and it then closes the relay to turn on the wipers, so just heads up if something doesn't work it may not be the switch, could be but not that simple anymore, lol.

 

Thanks Ron! That's all good to know. My truck is a regular cab, flareside, 2wd, with the 2.5 and five speed. It appears to have been meticulously maintained, which I'm very happy about!