I have a one owner 2005 Ranger FX4 with about 80K on the clock. It's got the 4L V6, has been upgraded with Level II shocks (Bilstein) and skid plates. I run either a set of 15" aftermarket heavy lug wheel/tires, or the original 16" wheels with Goodyears, depending on my needs. The Ranger is in exceptional condition mechanically, and while not showroom condition cosmetically, looks pretty darn nice for a 11 year old daily driver. It burns no oil and has had no significant mechanical problems in its entire life.

Now I'm thinking of replacing it with another vehicle, mostly for my wife's use as was the case with the Ranger. But due to the truck's superb reliability and overall performance I'm reluctant to get rid of it. Instead, I'm thinking of some modest but cost effective modifications to improve its off road performance, in both suspension and engine/transmission. I do not tow with the truck so that is not a consideration.

I'm looking for advice from those that have modified Rangers in the way I've described in hopes of coming up with a plan I can both afford and that will deliver improved performance.

Keith