My Truck

[Garageguy60]

2004 Ford Ranger XLT Extended Cab 2dr. 2wd/4wd 4.0 automatic 6' bed.

 

[Garageguy60]

just picked up the cap last saturday. going to paint it same color as the truck in the spring.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I like my topper... means I always have a way out when people need me to move big stuff.

But I love the fact I can lock it up more.

I see all kinds of possibilities in your truck.

What plans do you have?

 

[Garageguy60]

Good evening Uncle Gump, My plans this spring and summer are to paint the cap same color as the truck, remove the truck bed and clean,prep and paint with POR15 the underside of bed,and clean,prep and paint with POR15 the frame. Also address anything else that might need attention while the bed is off the truck. I will also replace the rear shocks and check the brake and fuel lines. wednesday I had my inspection station put the truck up on the lift and look over everything. They replace a rear differential cover (pumpkin plate) and gasket, old cover had a hole in it and was leaking, they also replace the left front wheel bearing assembly and dust shield and backing plate. Frame looks really good and someone had allready replaced both rear spring mounts and coated them. So as ive stated before, I really love this truck and I want to do everything I can to preserve it. What are all of the main Ranger Suppliers that you can call and they will send me a parts catalog ? When I had my El Camino's and Chevelle's the main supplier I used was Original Parts Group (OPGI) and they had about everything from bumper to bumper to restore your vehicle. Id love to find someplace like that for the Ranger. I love my topper also. When I do all the mentioned stuff underneath, then I want to coat the inside of the bed myself with that Raptor coating and spray about 3 coats on.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Yeah... I did my spring hangers and shackles last spring. I also saw my diff cover is getting pretty rough. I will most likely upgrade to an ARB cover. Pricey but pretty cool... and who doesn't like cool? I also just did a RF wheel bearing before a hunting trip in November... the second time. Damn cheap parts these days.

For parts... you can't go wrong usually with Motorcraft. I've bought Motorcraft parts on Amazon. It really is a buyer beware situation anymore with all parts. Choose wisely. As far a s a Ranger catalog... not sure one really exists. I typically shop for stuff on my computer. Many here use Rock Auto... I don't like the way they ding your for multiple shipping charges. Seems they ship from seperate warehouses and then change shipping from each. At least that's my experience. Yours my differ. There is also LMC truck... they may have a catalog.

For upgraded or performance parts... Check out James Duff Enterprises... Affordable Off Road... and also check out the TRS store on the site. Lots of upgrade parts. The Tech Library also has a bunch of home brew mods using junk yards finds I plan to do a rearview mirror upgrade with compass and temp display... parts from a full size GM truck. Maybe do an overhead console from an Explorer if I can find one.

There is also just posting up what you're looking to do and what you're trying to find... someone typically has answers to share.

 

[Garageguy60]

Thanks Uncle Gump , I really appreciate all that good information. I was thinking of an overhead console for my truck also. I also want to get a above the windshield outside lighted visor from Summit Racing this summer and paint it my truck color. I installed one on my 75 Ford Econoline Van years ago that I had and it really looked good and added a sporty look to the van. Thanks again, really appreciate it.

 

[Uncle Gump]

@sgtsandman put a visor on his last year I believe.... not sure it was the lighted version. Maybe he has a tip or two for you.

I personally can't bring myself to drill holes through my roof just yet... lol

 

[Garageguy60]

Thanks Uncle Gump, I will have to contact him sometime and ask him about that.

 

[sgtsandman]

I installed an unlighted model from Summit Racing. The only thing I would do differently is to not use the flanged sheet metal screws that come with the visor. I plan on using threaded inserts and regular flanged bolts this summer as an improvement. as long as you follow the instructions, there will be no leaks.

 

[Garageguy60]

Thanks sgtsandman for your information. I think I will do that same mounting procedure.