Oil Change/Hard Start

[Oh2Ranger]

Hey Guys,
First Post, 3rd Ranger. I had a few cars in between but I found myself coming back to the ranger. Newest addition is a 2002 XLT Extended cab with the 2.3.
I've only had it a few days, and loving it so far. Not too similar with the site, so be gentle I've got a few questions.

I just did an oil change, Mobil 1 syn and a Mobil 1 filter. From what I've read, 4 qts is what capacity is... 4 qts didn't fill mine up. It ended up being closer to 4.5 qts. The size of the filter looked the same as the FL-400's or whatever is stock, so I don't think that would be a factor. Made me wondering if my dipstick wasn't reading right for some reason? I don't want to over/under fill my new baby wanted to know from those who do their own oil changes what they usually put in there. Thanks!

Also, it seems I have a 'hard start' issue. Not anything major, but it takes a few sec longer than I'd like to start. Don't know if it's normal, or a remedy?

Thanks!

 

[Oh2Ranger]

Nobody knows how much oil their 2.3 takes after oil change?

 

[irishfan84n]

I think it is usually 4 1/2 to 5 in my ranger 2.5 and I think it is the same for the 2.3, but always remember to fill up the oil filter before you put the new one on so you dont get a dry start!! Hope this helps

 

[nh2123]

4.5 quarts is resonable, that is what my 2004 2.3 takes. Also "hard" starts is something to be expected and is a known condition with the 2.3 duratec engine. Nothing to worry about this engine just takes a few more senconds to start than most.

 

[Oh2Ranger]

Thanks, I didn't understand why my dipstick was reading my oil level was so low after putting in the specified qts.