Is anyone aware of an on line service manual for a 3rd gen Ranger. I am about to start working on making the 96 Splash that has been sitting in my driveway for about a year and in the way of my garage. I have decided to make it into my work vehicle.

 

Not that I know of. What do you need one for? Maybe I can find the information that you need.

 

Do you have any friends that are ford techs? They might be able to give you their log in for the Ford Tech Network.

 

Our county library has a database called AllData. Its basically a service manual for every vehicle. The only problem is that you have to be in the library to use it.

Also at school we had a database called 'Auto Repair Reference Center' its part of the EBSCO databases. Between the 2 of them you can find everything that you need. Check if your county or school librarys have either of those resources available.

 

Just about to start the ranger project. Which is resurrect the 96 splash that my son abandoned in my driveway a year or so ago. It looks bad from some abuse, but all in all, it is repairable. It drives nice despite the 4 ball joints that need to be replaced. Needs a new windshield, The holders for headlights are broken, so is the grill from a minor front collision and the oil pan is a bit rusty and now leaks. Very rusted tailgate and some bent front bumper mounts but that is about it. Always starts with a boost, runs smooth. Has the bullet proof 3 litre V6 and a 5 speed manual. Working A/C, the start of a nice sound system, a few dents (easily pulled), a matching cap, winter and summer rims, and very little rust elsewhere. I have 3 possible budgets in mind. $1000 makes it driveable, $2000 makes it into a nice little truck. $3000 buys a parts vehicle as well with enough parts to keep this running for the rest of its useful life. So I think it is worth the investment rather than getting $50 for it at the wreckers.

So the manual was just for what ever I might encounter with this project. The Hayes service manual is about $25 around here. Not sure if it is worth it. I have always preferred the manufactures service manual.

 

I suggest picking up the Haynes Manual for Rangers. We have a copy at my house that is great for fixing and general troubleshooting. Good luck with the project.

 

The Haynes or a Chilton is always a good bet. But as for online service, Autozone has a suprising look one that is free. You have to register for their site, but they have alot of repair information as well as exploded diagrams.

 

I picked up a Ford Ranger Tech CD off eBay a few years back. Pretty awesome. It's a similar program as to what you'd find in a Ford dealership repair bay computer.
It's a good tool to have in combination with a Haynes manual.

 

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