97RangerXLT

Introduction

Name: Anson J. Nichols

Forum Name / Link: 97RangerXLT

TRS Volunteer Staff Position: Forum Moderator

Location: Anderson, IN

Year Born: 1971

Occupation: Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) analyst

Hobbies: Hiking, Camping, Computers, Cars

Vehicle Details: 1997 Ranger SuperCab 4×4. 4.0 and Automatic transmission with Warn Jeep hubs

How long you’ve been a member of TRS: Since September of 2007, right after the site was changed. Moderator since 2013,

Background & Expertise

Brief biography:

I work as an EDI Analyst for an insurance company. worked in IT/ Prod support since 2008, before that, a machine operator at a factory

How long have you been a member of The Ranger Station? 

Since September of 2007

How did you first get into Ford Rangers or off-roading?

I got my 1997 Ranger in 2005 from my dad. had a little over 100k on it, joined TRS in 2007 to look up some minor repair issues and it snowballed from there. Really do enjoy this truck, have owned it over 20 years, and in those 20 years, I have done all the work and maintenance on it. it now has 202k on it.

Any certifications, qualifications, or education worth noting? 

BS degree in Management Information Systems (Enterprise level IT), can use YouTube for both my professional life and Ranger repair to successfully solve problems.

What specific areas of expertise or interest do you bring to TRS?

Gifted amateur on car/ Ranger repair, and I do share my knowledge and learning, so others don’t have to recreate the wheel when repairing their Ranger

What kind of Ranger(s) (or Bronco II, Explorer, etc.) do you currently own or have owned in the past? 

A 1997 Ranger XLT SuperCab with 4.0, automatic, 4×4, manual locking hubs and 3.73 gears turning 31″ tires (factory spec)

Contribution to TRS

What do you do at TRS?

Forum Moderator, helping other members and a few How to’s

Do you contribute or help with specific areas of the forum?

Yes, I have a few articles in the Tech library, one on upper gaskets for the 4.0 OHV and one on A/C resurrection

What do you enjoy most about being part of the TRS community? 

Honestly, the people/ members. the events that we do each year are great, it is as fun to hang out with the people as it is to drive the Ranger. possibly even more so.

Fun & Personal

Favorite Ford vehicle ever?

Probably my 1997 Ranger, although I really do like my 2020 Edge as well. So much in fact that after I totaled the first one, I went and bought another one to replace it.

Favorite mod or upgrade you’ve ever done? 

Hands down, the Autostop Eliminator on my 2020 Edge… For the Ranger, the swapping out of the automatic hubs for manuals

Most memorable off-road trip or experience? 

The 20th and 25th TRS Anniversary Trail Ride and Adventure. Great times with great people.

One piece of advice you’d give to a new Ranger owner: 

Get involved with the forum, share what you learn, and definitely attend a TRS event.