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2003 FX4 4.0L Ranger?


hilltopfarm

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 30, 2011
Messages
173
City
NW WA
Vehicle Year
2003/1988
Transmission
Manual
Hello,

I am currently looking at a newer ranger than my 88'. This is a 03' 4x4 4.0L ranger that someone is selling for 5K. It has 126K miles on it and needs a clutch. Is there any suggestions that anyone may have to help guide me in my decision. I know very little about the SOHC 4.0 so if anyone has any tips on what the common issues are and what I should be looking for, I would appreciate it. I am just looking for a reliable truck that I do not have to be constantly fixing.

FIY: The listing for the truck can be found HERE

Thanks for any info!!
-- Anthony
 
Well, I just put $1500 in timing chain issues. You'd better have a good mechanic that works cheap because you'll be needing a new clutch. Mechanics up here in WA don't work cheap. Don't expect much better than 18 mpg in it. The price sounds cheap enough though.
 
About how often do the timing chains need replacing? Every 60K, 80K??? Pulling the engine to get at that rear timing chain seems like a poor design on Fords part. Are the timing chains the only major downfall to these engines???
 
Most of the timing chain issues were in the 2001 model Rangers with the 4.0 SOHC. By 2002 the problem was greatly reduced and around 2003 very few had a problem. I know of a couple 2002s that have over 300K miles with no timing chain issues. Mine is at 147K miles and still runs very well. That does not mean you will not have a problem but the chances are very slim.

If you keep it long enough and put enough miles on it, you will probably eventually have to deal with it. I am planning on keeping mine at least 300K miles and will deal with it if needed.

I know of no other major issues with the 4.0 SOHC engine. It has proven to me to be strong and reliable.
 
OK,

Thanks for the info on the timing chain. I'm going to go test drive the truck today. I'll let you know how that goes. Definitely have to take it to a shop to get a pre-buyers inspection if still interested...
 
OK,

went and test drove the truck & got a pre-buyers inspection. Drives nice other than the clutch is inoperative (that is something I can fix easily enough) The mechanic said that the truck has a light timing chain noise on start-up for about 30 sec., he said that it was probably because the oil was low, he recommended that I put a oil additive in with the next oil change. It also needs new tires. I offered the guy 4.5K for it (500 less than asking) and he took it. Will pick up the truck on Monday. I think that the truck needs some TLC and hopefully it will last at least another 3-4 years!
 
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