Hey everybody! Huge fan of the Ranger and looking to pick one up going into the winter months as I have a Miata as my DD. Could definitely use something a bit safer and more manageable during the snowy months. I have grown a lot as a "car mechanic" since owning my Miata, and I am learning a TON on how to work on cars.

I am curious about the Ranger, and looking to get some good feedback an options. As it seems with the Miatas, the Rangers last to 200k miles easy. Since a ranger would be my second car, I'll have time to make it my "project car" and work a bit on it as I get the free time.

My specific question, however, is about the mileage and engine swaps. If I want a Ranger that will last me 5+ years at the minimum, is it preferably to buy a cheap Ranger with high mileage, and swap out the engine? I don't have a high budget, as I would simply spend $10,000 up front on a ranger with good mileage on it. I can do all the regular maintenance and replacements myself, like radiator, starter, ignition lock cylinder, brakes, timing belt, etc. over time and as paychecks come in, so that's not a worry.

How often/how manageable are engine swaps? I'd like to pick up the 4L V6, but if I am swapping, can I just get a cheaper model anyway to save some money? Thanks!