Starting point

[Msidwell94]

Hello, I'm new to the world of Rangers. I bought a 2000 Ranger XLT 4x4 4.0liter about 2 months ago. I'm looking to see what I have to start with. My end goal is to have a good expedition truck, something that I can take to remote areas with out worrying about. I apologize if my questions seem basic, I come from the Jeep Wrangler world.

Specs of for current ground clearance

Tire size: 30x8.5x15
Ground to frame rail: 12.5inches(roughly)
Ground to front axle skid plate: 8 inches(roughly)

I want to have about 18 inches of ground clearance, after tires and lift kit, I am not sure if the truck has a lift kit at the moment.
Any clearance measurements with tire size would be helpful.
Any advice would be helpful also

 

[RonD]

You have the last year of the 4.0l OHV engine which is a good reliable power plant.
2001 models have the 4.0l SOHC engines, more horse power, but had problems in the first few years.

And unfortunately you have the last year of the PVH locking hubs('98-'00), which were not reliable
Read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/Magazine/Apr04/offroad.htm
And here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/AVM_hub_swap.shtml
For did switch to "Live Axle" in late 2000, but these were almost all sold as 2001 models

Check what you have for drive train gearing here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/axle_codes.shtml
You probably have L/S, Limited Slip(GM calls it Positraction), in the rear since it is a 4x4, but worth knowing if you do or don't.
The axle ratio will also help you determine actual speed with larger tires.

Winch and dual battery setup is always nice to have when off-road.