I haven't bought to many cars, the oldest was three years old when I got it (my current Ranger). Now I'm looking for an old Ranger, something late 80's early 90's four cylinder five speed 2wd. So what should I look for? Anything in particular to look out for?

Thanks!

 

Low miles? lol

Well no rust would be a good start. What are your plans for it?

 

My guess if it's a 4banger is for gas mileage/dd beater. Basic would be rust and high mileage. Make sure to drive it before you buy it to see if you can notice if there are any problems that pop up when driving it.

 

Like roach said rust, mileage, who drove it can be a major factor...if a 16 year old had it then you can bet its been pushed. Check for any altered front end things. Its noticeable to see whats been replaced and what was not. just look hard and if you think you see something outta place or not put back like the factory had it, check it further, people love to cover things up as i learned

 

body mounts mine on my 90 were so bad the whole bushing started to fall through it.

 

price is a really big thing to look for.

 

+1 for body mounts. I'm on my second Gen II and the body mounts love to rust out.

 

I agree with you guys rust is a major factor. I do disagree with one thing to an extent. The drive before you buy thing is all well and good but heres the thing I've encountered looking at older rangers that most everybody forgets to look at. The FRAME of the older ranger on everyone that I've looked at was so bad it wasn't funny. if it seems decent then by all means drive before you buy. But if it looks questionable then don't bother. you can't drive without a chassis pure and simple. Plus you also have to consider other things which these guys have covered. Price, mileage, the owner(s), how well it was maintained which is usually documented to an extent. here's another thing that another member said earlier. A 4 banger 2WD owned by a 16 year old usually has been "modified" if ya know what I mean. It be a great time if you did get one to drop a V8 in it or restore it.