1998 Ford Ranger Xlt Ext V6

[huff70]

Hey Guys,

Newbie here, to the forums and the truck world. I am looking to buy a ranger and found a 98 manual 4x4 for $7000. Good price? I don't know the mileage, but is there anything i should pay attention to when buying or probs to look out for. Thanks i look forward to your help.

 

[Toms01PSD]

Anything done to it custom wise? $7,000 grand is still too much. Look for bubbles in the coolant reservior box (it's on the left side looking at the engine). Depending on where you live, get underneath it and make sure everything looks good. If you don't know the mileage I suggest you find out ASAP. What engine is in it? Also, take it for a long test drive.

 

[huff70]

Mileage is 170k, what do the bubbles signify?
It is about $6500 US actually as i am in Canada! Could get him down to 6000 maybe.

Oh and thanks Toms for your help!

 

[93Ranger4x4]

7 is still kinda steep for a 98 with 170k miles, i just bought a 96 4.0 5spd 4wd for 2k with only 155k miles on it. Ive seen 98s sell for under 6, hell a buddy of mine only paid 4 or 5 for his 98 ext cab 3.0 5 spd with 120k about 5-6 yrs ago.

 

[88gt]

my 99 cost me 5700 4 years ago. and if it was mine according to kellys bluebook, it is only worth 4500 right now as is. you can come down on price at least 1500us

 

[huff70]

thanks guys

 

[Toms01PSD]

Mileage is 170k, what do the bubbles signify?
It is about $6500 US actually as i am in Canada! Could get him down to 6000 maybe.

Oh and thanks Toms for your help!

What size engine? The bubbles would signify compression in the coolant (head gasket issue/heads) or the possibility that he drained all of the coolant and refilled it the day you went and looked at it. Which of the two is more probable? Not the latter, that's for sure. 170k on that thing is definately not worth $6500. I paid $3150 US for my 99 with 174k on it. Like I said, check for the bubbles, watch if the temp spikes, pull all the dipsticks, and look how much fluid is in each tank. It'll give you a good idea if it's been taken care of or not. I'd also advise getting underneath the truck to see how it looks. After you've done that, take it for a long test drive. Don't forget to cycle the 4x4 to make sure that works too. If you get me the VIN I can run a Carfax also.

 

[huff70]

Thanks a lot for that advice Toms going back tomorrow and will see if i can get the number

 

[huff70]

i got the vin number 1FTZR15X5WPA75138
my research seems to suggest that up here in BC prices are higher than you guys pay in the US

 

[feellnfroggy]

That may be, but we're suggesting not paying 7k Canadian or American for a 98 with that many miles. I found a 99 with a blown motor and lift with 33's for 900 bux in florida, Im sure there are more deals like that even in your area. But even a running truck you should be able to find one for around 5 or less. Patience (if your not in a bind) is the key to a good find.

 

[Beef52751]

thats over priced IMHO

 

[huff70]

so that seems to be the consensus that it is overpriced, i didn't mention it is fully loaded, extended cab, with a cap for the back, would 6g be worth it?......is it much better to get the manual over auto? and i'm also keen to have the xtended cab and 4x4, basically what i'm saying is will 4x4 and automatic lead to more probs?
Thanks all for your help again

 

[Toms01PSD]

Fully loaded or not, stuff like power windows and power locks wear out over time. I don't have a manual trans but i've never had a problem with an auto trans. Maybe try offering $5500. If you're set on getting it then get it, you're the one who's going to be driving it.

 

[88gt]

is it much better to get the manual over auto? and i'm also keen to have the xtended cab and 4x4, basically what i'm saying is will 4x4 and automatic lead to more probs?
Thanks all for your help again

my truck has been pushed by a 3.0 and a automatic for 220000 miles now and shifts great still. but i would suggest a manual if you get bored driveing like i do. automatics are just boring IMO. 4x4 is a plus and extended cab is a must if you are a taller fella like me...

 

[huff70]

yeah i feel safer being able to shift down in a manual and if you're getting a truck may as well have 4x4. Holy cow though i just checked on ebay and there is a 98xlt for $2500 in Texas!!!!!!!!!!!Tempted to fly down and get it! You get good prices down there in the US for sure, maybe i'll go to WA state although then theres taxes and modifications etc to pay. I reckon i might do it for 6large all in with a warranty but sit on it for a week or 2.