Hey all, got two question for you guys.

My 2001 ranger edge 3.0L 5spd manual w/ A/C std cab (320k on odometer) has low compression on cylinder 6 (60psi) with a misfire at idle. Besides that it drives fine. Just bought it for $2600 thinking it was just a spark/injector issue... There's no oil in coolant or vice versa.

Read alot about recessed valve seats and believe I've got that issue. (I have yet to squirt oil down cylinder to check rings)

Trucks in alright condition for Alberta Canada. Floors are starting to rot out, but frames pretty okay.

I've got a quote for ~$630cad to rebuild heads not including parts (this includes cleaning, checking for cracks, and machining new seats)

I'm just curious, with the high mileage, if I should just worry about the heads and get it running good, or delve ***** deep, remove the motor, and rebuild the motor with new bearings and rings/pistons (if cylinder walls are okay that is). I also have another ranger with a similar mileage but engine runs good (besides needing a cam synchro) that I could swap in but I fear I'd run into the same issue sooner than later.

Just trying to keep costs down as it's not a perfect rig. Planning on cutting the floor boards out the other truck/fabricating some new panels with sheet metal as it seems replacements are unavailable.

**Other question** truck idles high when cabin fan is turned on. I've read somewhere the truck uses A/C constantly to keep cabin dry. Is this true? I believe that's the issue with it idling at 1500-2000 only when cabin air is on any selection besides "off" (also noticed A/C doesn't engage, but clutch magnet is good as I tested with applying 12v directly to it)

TL:DR, high mileage motor (320k), low comp cyl 6, suspect recessed valve seat, rebuild just head or complete motor? Also, high idle only when cabin fan switch is anywhere but "off", no vacuum leaks.

 

to me, if you get the heads done, its not too hard of a job. should take 3 or 4 days. replace water pump also. drive it easy, change the oil often and keep it tuned up. should last a good while.

 

Thanks. I'm the kind of guy that's like "well I'm already here may as well keep going" and then end up snowballing out of control lol.

I think I will just get the heads done and call it good as long as the cylinder walls aren't too scored. If the bottom end goes then I'll deal with it then.