2002 Ranger???

[Memphis]

I know there used to be another place for this question, but I have been off away for several months and I can't find it. Please forgive me. I found a 2002 Ranger step side for sale for $6,000 and it has 129,000 miles with a 4.0 and 5spd automatic. It's 4x4 as well. Anything to be concerned about here? I had read that the 2002 Explorer was questionable, particularly the transmission. What sort of gas mileage would I get with this? Thanks,Scott

 

[exbass94]

A 2002 Explorer uses a completely different transmission than a Ranger. The transmissions are fine as long as you change the fluid regularly. The 2002 4.0s were affected by the bad timing chain tensioners. They're a super pain in the butt to replace, often it's cheaper/easier to swap in a junkyard engine. However, if it has 129k on it and it's still good, I wouldn't worry too much about it. Expect to get about 17 mpg.

 

[jeffw920]

On the timing chain rattle...
I had an 02 that would only do it on occasion at 2k rpms under certain conditions. other than that nothing, I think exbass is right, if its at 129k and doesn't do it obnoxiously i wouldn't worry much. Most of what i've heard suggests low to moderate rattle is more of an annoyance to the driver than a potentially damaging mechanical issue.