98 4.0 ???'s

[Ranger850]

There is a 98 2wd Splash 4.0/auto available to me for $1500. I know it runs, but I also know it leaks fluids. Not sure which ones, neither does the owner. It's his daughter's and they don't have the time/money to fix it and want to cut there losses. . The body and interior are very clean, only the "splash" stickers are faded and peeling, some clearcoat issues, but otherwise a solid truck. What are the potential ailments of this truck, and is this the good 4.0 or the Bad one. Is it worth trying to whittle him down to $1,000 and trying to get it road worthy

 

[Uncle Gump]

That one should have the 4.0L OHV... which some consider the good one. 8th digit should be X if it truly is an OHV.

 

[Ranger850]

That one should have the 4.0L OHV... which some consider the good one. 8th digit should be X if it truly is an OHV.

Yes. It has OHV on the plastic intake plenum.
about 160K miles (158k if my memory serves) I figure that's about the time for a tune up (it probably didn't get), and now things have started to fail.

 

[Uncle Gump]

It will probably be about time for a transmission too... depending on how it was used/maintained.

I've had a couple of the OHV 4.0L engine go well north of 250K miles.

By todays standards... even $1500 isn't a bad price to pay if it isn't rusted out and you can drive it away.

 

[Ranger850]

I'll try to get a test drive in this weekend and see how the trans feels. I don't think the truck was mistreated or abused, just neglected when things started needing work.

 

[dmb2613]

If it was in VA, it would be in my yard by now if your info is correct