Hello,

New guy here.

I'm shopping for my first Ranger, and I'm wondering if there were any problem years for the 4 cylinder engine? Is there anything else I should look for?

At present, I'm looking in the 1995-2002 range for a standard cab, 5 speed manual, either 2wd or 4wd. I've got 95 as the oldest so that the truck will have at least a driver's airbag.

Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Bill

 

Lima 2.3's (93-97) and 2.5's (98-mid 01, same engine with different displacement) are solid motors from my experience and everything I've heard from others. The basic engine family dates back to the 80's so its really a proven design as I understand it. They do have a timing belt so make sure belts are good if it's high miles, and other basic maintenance things. With that and the stick, I'd say you could go 200k+ if things are taken care of. I plan to see how far my 97 will go, I'm at 138k right now.

I've never really heard anything bad about the Duratec 2.3 either, but technically it hadn't been around as long as the Lima's either. You'd probably be good with either one for a long time.

 

x2

the old limas are gutless but reliable. make sure you can live with the lack of power because you'll have it for a while lol

 

Thanks, Red & Mac.

Just bought a 96 yesterday. Standard cab, short bed, excellent condition, 175k, with receipts for new coil pack, plug wires, plat. plugs, serpentine belt, timing belt, water pump, cat. conv., and tires all earlier this year. I feel pretty certain it has always had the oil changed every 3k.

Power won't be a problem, well worth the extra couple mpg. Got an F250 diesel for the heavy hauling/towing.

Bill

 

Congrats, sounds like it should be in good shape for sure. That reminds me I need to have belts done lol. Also I agree with mac on the gutless part, but at least yours is a regular cab. You should post pics if you got any.

 

I agree with Mac and if you take care of yours, it'll last "forever". Mine has more than 100k miles and nothing to worry about.
I changed the serpentine belt 6 years ago, timing belt last year, EGR valve and DPFE too.
I'll change spark plugs this december with the IAC valve.
I change oil / differential oil / oil filter / air filter / oil filter every 6 months cause I dirve like a granny!

Everything's fine so far !! But don't count on horsepower if you drive it like an F1.