1985 ranger Qs

[lil'_big_truck]

Hey all,

So As you've probably noticed, I'm itching for a project of some sort . Well I found a 1985 Ranger for sale for $800. I was wondering if it was worth it and if it would be a good project truck . I've called the owner and asked for more information but as of now, all I know is is that its a 2.9 V6 auto 4x4 and anything that I can pick out from the picture. I feel like its a good deal. I will post more information as I find things out. All opinions are welcome.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

It would be a 2.8 if it is a v6 unless somebody put a 2.9 in it. EFI 2.9's came out in '86.

Otherwise at least on this side it is a nice clean looking truck.

It must be the tires, I don't remember mine every looking that small...

 

[lil'_big_truck]

I was just guessing at the 2.9. the add just says that its a V6. I'm assuming that the 2.8 is carbed?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I was just guessing at the 2.9. the add just says that its a V6. I'm assuming that the 2.8 is carbed?

Not just carbed, but computer controlled carbed. All the disadvantages of both EFI and carburation with few of the advantages wrapped up into one package.

Depending on what you intend to do with it, converting to a normal carb and Duraspark ignition is pretty simple if it gives you problems.

 

[lil'_big_truck]

If I got it, I would probably just make it a nice street truck that looks fairly stock. I've never owned anything carbed. What's the advantages/disadvantages of a carbed engine vs efi? also, are there any problem spots i should check besides checking everything for rust?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

In its ideal form you pop the hood and see an engine with a box on top and a couple wires going to the dizzy, no massive wire looms, hoses and tubes draped all over the engine. What little is there is easy to get at because it isn't nestled in amongst 10 other parts.

The feedback 2.8 system isn't quite like that, they have sensors, senders and wiring running all over like EFI only they have a carb too.

Carbs require more fiddling than EFI too...

For a toy they are fine IMO, I have had mine for 11.5 years.

 

[rockin86ranger]

I never had a problem with dailying a carb, in the 4-5years i've owned it i think it's been adjusted twice

 

[lil'_big_truck]

cool. Well is there anything I should look for when I look at the truck (defect wise)?

 

[jhammel85]

Make sure there isn't any hidden rust and make sure the trans doesn't slip.

Other than that, it sounds like you'll have awesome little stocker!

 

[lil'_big_truck]

bad news. It sold. I couldn't get a hold of the owner and today the posting was gone. oh well. now to wait for the next one to come around. I did find these two:

1989 with a clutch going out for $1500

1983 2.3 5spd (not the diesel, the engine was swapped) for $1000

I'm not sure which one I should go for. I like the 89's paint but I'm not sure how much work it would need, since I want one that needs a bit of work. And the 83 would definitely need some paint and i'm not sure about a 4banger. I just like the v6s.

Which one would you get for an easy project on a college budget? And do you think I could maybe talk the 89 owner down to $1200?

 

[rockin86ranger]

I think your biggest debate between those 2 trucks would be which would i like more extended cab or regular. The 89 will start better in the cold and has the added room and passenger space. The 83 makes a better sport truck in most peoples mind being a reg cab and short bed, i would go and look at the 83 and try to talk them down. it looks like the body is better, plus if would make a fun 2.3t swap. Also there can always be a project to do on a truck, no need to buy one that needs a lot done to it anyways (buy one in better shape you can save money for mods)

And you can never tell if they will go down til you actually try to haggle with them.