1996 Ranger 2.3L 4X4

[B30004X4]

Hi I am looking at getting a regular cab 1996 Ranger 2.3L 4X4 5 speed with manual hubs and on the floor 4X4. The truck has 188,000 on it and I am wondering if anyone has expierence with these trucks. I can tell it doesnt have much power but are the 2.3L generally reliable? What kinda gas milage could i figure on the highway? And the truck has little 215s right now. Is 235s the biggest I can go without losing all power? Id like 31s but if it cant go atleast 65 mph very easy then its probably not worth it.

Thanks
Dan

 

[swynx]

im sure with 31's ud struggle 65 in 5th, my moms 2.3 on 29's barely does 5th, 4th does fine tho, idk y thered be 4hi not enuf power to turn all 4 =P. and really any rig is reliable as long as its been maintained good. unless its one of those pos death traps

 

[kroed11581]

I have a 93 with the 5 speed and 2.3. It is woefully underpowered, but will do anything I ask it to. Just don't be anywhere in a hurry. I get 20mpg in the winter and 25 in the summer. It does better if I stay at 60 rather than 70 on the freeway. It's a fun truck and if I need to tow something really heavy, I fire up the Exploder that day.