2005 ranger

[robs05xlt]

Hi There:
I just bought a certified used 05 ranger xlt,4.0l sohc,4x4,4dr,5300 miles.6yrs. or 100k warrenty on the power train.This is my 3rd ranger.
I was wondering why there is 50,000 miles of rust on the undercarriage of the truck w/5300miles?There should only be a little rust. The I beams have surface rust which is normal. All the brake line nuts & the f/ filter mounting bracket have severe rust on them.This truck spent 3 years in harsh Minnesota winters. Is that the reason?
Any recommendations on what type of rust preventative to apply?I guess if you don't have a lift looks like a dealer job? I had it on jack stands for a few days wire -wheeling off what I could with a regular drill.I applied primer, but at 63 it got old. I had a 98 ranger 4x4 xl 8 1/2 years sat outside here in central Pa. with the normal amount of rust, nothing like this truck & this ones only 3years old with low miles. Any reliability issues to be concerned about on the 05?
Whats the 3 prong plug aft of the radiator for? My guess is to keep the oil warm overnight.At what temperature does this plug have to be used?
Thanks for any info. provided
robs05xlt

 

[mossyoak03]

ya being that it was usesd in minnesota the salt from the roads have rusted your undercarriage. i would recommend sanding everything bc your not helping anything if you just paint over it. then used some undercoating to paint everything.

that 3 prong plug is to keep your engine cool for the cold winters. im nut sure if there is a certain temperature to plug it in or not

 

[grey ghost]

my '04 looks the same way and it only has 31,640 on the clock. so any help will be welcomed on what to do to slow down the rust . ps mine has allways been in pa...

 

[Doofy]

Best thing to do is keep all the road salt and mud hosed off the vehicle, especially the undercarriage. Either a hose in the driveway or at the car wash.

 

[kamps989]

I live in Minnesota and I bought my truck a couple of months ago with 55,000 on it and it looks like 300,000 worth of rust. Mine was used on alot of dirt roads and MN uses an insane amount of salt. Around here I guess it's pretty normal.

 

[JohnnyO]

The plug is for an engine block heater. My wife's Taurus was originally sold in Canada and has one. Not really necessary in PA but it's handy when the temp goes below 25* or so. The heater gets hot air faster.
I'd be suspicious of a four year old truck with only 5300 miles and not 53,000. It's a little late to do anything about the rust though. It's mostly just surface rust, I wouldn't worry too much. I did have rust repair done on warranty on my '99 and '02 Rangers on the lower door seams and tailgate seam.

 

[robs05xlt]

Hi Guys:
Thanks for all the replys.I had to lol when I read the Minnesotan's reply of "bought it last year with 55k & 300,000 miles of rust!" Sorry I couldn't help it.
Thanks for the info. on the insane amount of salt useage.
BTW: I pulled the wheels & checked the brakes all the way a round & the door jams & the brake & gas pedals for signs of wear.The engine compartment is like new & all the fluids.Slightly dirty a/filter. Tread depth is 12/32. I believe this is a truck with well now 5600 miles.
Question: I have been to quiet a few stores & did not see any spray cans of rubberized undercoating. I wonder why?
robs05xlt