Replacing an 01

Reavis · Aug 21, 2016

3 years ago I lucked out and got a screamin' deal on an '01 Ranger xlt super cab 4wd with only 24k miles. Loved it. But luck ran out last weekend when I rolled it on a back road.

I do forest work so need clearance and have a small farm so haul stuff around from time to time but nothing too big. Really liked the mpg, reliabilty, and no frills. The 01 was perfect.

Found a 2002 I can afford with the insurance payout. (100k more miles).

Is an 02 just as good? Are there years I should avoid or look for? Other trucks to consider (reliability, mpg, durability are key) Thanks!

RonD · Aug 21, 2016

Welcome to TRS

2002 model year was pretty good
4.0l SOHC engines(2001-2004) did have timing chain issues which required engine to be pulled out for repair.
3.0l was OK
2.3l DOHC Duratec 4cyl was OK as well, it did have some coolant lines with plastic fittings that might need replacing over time.

4WD system was the same as 2001

Doofy · Aug 21, 2016

There is a Ranger Buyers Guide on the TRS Home page.

Reavis · Aug 21, 2016

Thanks! That's a great resource. Not much info that's *not* there.

I'd welcome any other advice or thoughts folks have.

Is there a point where high mileage is too high? Also, I know this is a Ranger forum, but any other used trucks to consider for reliability, durability, and economy?

pjtoledo · Aug 21, 2016

as for engine choices, the 3.0 flex fuel is a good engine, BUT if the flex fuel sensor goes bad the engine won't run and that dammned sensor is over $600 !!!! there are aftermarket "replicators" for $150 but that eliminates the FF ability.

other than that, no major complaints on my 3.0 FF bought new in 2000.

where are you located?

if the frame is good/not rusted consider keeping it if feasible.

stmitch · Aug 22, 2016

pjtoledo said:
as for engine choices, the 3.0 flex fuel is a good engine, BUT if the flex fuel sensor goes bad the engine won't run and that dammned sensor is over $600 !!!! there are aftermarket "replicators" for $150 but that eliminates the FF ability.

other than that, no major complaints on my 3.0 FF bought new in 2000.

where are you located?

if the frame is good/not rusted consider keeping it if feasible.

Based on what I've heard from owners, the 01 and newer flex fuel trucks don't use the Flex Fuel Sensor. The fuel quality/type is determined via the PCM. It eliminates the expensive sensor, but can add a delay that makes fine tuning the fuel system a bit more difficult for performance applications.

Reavis · Aug 22, 2016

Thanks again.

I'm in Eastern Oregon so my options are a bit limited. Haven't seen the Flex Fuel option out there yet.

I'm taking a look at that '02 tomorrow. I'm glad it sounds like a fundamentally sound vehicle. The Buyers Guide is a great resource so even if that doesn't work out, I'm sure there's something I can find.

Still wondering if anyone's got thoughts on if there's a point where high mileage crosses a line of not being worth it and if there are any other trucks out there that would satisfy a Ranger lover - which is to say no frills, dependability, and economy.

RonD · Aug 22, 2016

The M5OD-R1 manual transmission, used in Ranger from 1988 to 2012 was fairly bulletproof, but will need clutch replaced, average life is 150k miles, but this varies widely depending on use, between 100k and 200k.
They use a self adjusting pressure plate so no way to tell clutch wear by pedal feel.
Clutch replacement can run $700-$1,200 at a shop.

The 5R44E automatic (2001-2012) was a good transmission but like all automatics heat reduces life expectancy, darker colored fluid can be heat damage or 0 maintenance, neither is a good sign, fresh fluid can also hide a problem.
If truck has second trans cooler that's a good sign trans could be in good condition.
150k miles is again the average number, and 100k-200k, although 200k is an optimistic number.
You can usually find a rebuilt 5R44E for about $1,500 with 5year/100k warranty, exchange, plus whatever removal and installation runs

pjtoledo · Aug 22, 2016

stmitch said:
Based on what I've heard from owners, the 01 and newer flex fuel trucks don't use the Flex Fuel Sensor. The fuel quality/type is determined via the PCM. It eliminates the expensive sensor, but can add a delay that makes fine tuning the fuel system a bit more difficult for performance applications.

performance from a 3.0?? well, depends on who you ask and how much money they wasted.

maybe that's why my '00 was so cheap when we got it. in July '00 my son, then 18, was able to lease it for less than $99/mo with a mere $150 down. when the 2 yr lease expired I bought it for about $7300.

I knew they switched to the non-sensor system, just didn't know exactly when.
its good to know.

Andy D · Aug 26, 2016

If the clutch is reeeeally bad it will engage right at the top

85_Ranger4x4 · Aug 26, 2016

M5OD has rubber plugs for the shift rails that go bad, leak and since people never check anything run the trans low/without oil.

That and not knowing how to shift are what kills them.

Replacing an 01

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