Hi everyone. I am looking to buy a Ford Ranger soon and was hoping to get some general advice. I spent some time searching for a Rangers buyers guide but didn't come across one on this site. Did I miss it? Otherwise if anyone can tell me the common failure points on the truck to look for, I would appreciate it.

PS I am a Tacoma convert... My frame rusted and I noticed a lot of Rangers still running well at 200k miles so here I am.

 

And if it helps anyone else I found this elsewhere

http://www.fourwheeler.com/project-v...-buyers-guide/

 

I just found this as well.

http://www.therangerstation.com/reso...oblemArea.html

 

Depends on engine and trans combo you want the different motors and trans combos all have their weak spots just have to find one that suits you and address the issues you may see I see your signature says 4.0 which is a mighty strong engine but having had all the ranger engines in the family at some point the 4cylinders and 3.0 seem more reliable but are slower but to each his own good luck in your search!

 

Look at the rear shackles and hangers, the frames dont typically rot but the shackles and hangers do. They are cheap and very common to replace so if they are bad and the frame is good there is no problem. If i were buying from a dealer i would negotiate that in the sale if possible/applicable.

Another rust spot to check out is above the muffler. Most rangers have this dumb fabric stick on heat shield that traps dirt and moisture and can cause the bed floor/supports to rot. This is a bigger deal than shackles in my mind.