87 ranger 4x4 w/ 2.3l turbo diesel------ worth buying?

[Cam10]

I found an 87 ranger 4x4 with the 2.3 l turbo diesel. from what I know, it's not running but has had a bunch of credible work done to it.Would it be worth buying? I heard that they are somewhat rare and all but, with such a small engine, wouldn't the be really limited on what they can do? any pointers help.

 

[86MUDRCJ]

From what I know yes, they are pretty rare. I didn't know they came in 4x4 that's pretty neat. How much is the guy asking is they main question. And what are you going to be using it for that it needs a set amount of hp?

 

[straycat]

If you don't know anything about them then you need to take somebody along and even if you have to pay a good mechanic you know $100 to go over the thing it would be worth it. It can cost a lot to repair that motor. I would stay away from it myself. I would just by a Ranger with a 4.0 in it if I was going to buy another Ranger to tell you the truth. It is best to be cautious with this Ranger then jump blindly into it and then have to spend $1,000-1,500 a few months later if something is wrong with it. Look at it this way....he is trying to get rid of it!!!

 

[adsm08]

The problem with rare cars is that parts are also rare. And this is a rare beast.

 

[Cam10]

I know my way around vehicle, straycat. I am an apprentice at the local ford dealership. any ho, My main question is basically, does anyone know anything about them? How where those diesels' for longevity? how well does the 4x4 perform for the amount of power provided. stuff like that.

 

[Mark_88]

If it runs and is in good shape body wise I'd seriously consider it. The 2.3 is a solid engine but it is limited...rebuilding them is not usually a problem and you may be able to convert it to its gas cousin without too much effort...the difference in HP is considerable, but I'm sure the diesel version with a turbo is better than a gas powered non-turbo...and probably great on fuel.

How many miles on it and does it run well enough to test drive it? What transmission is in it and do you have the resources to rebuild if it is not a common transmission (if needed)?

Most important...what is the condition of the frame? You could transplant everything over to another Ranger but that is a major project...are you willing to love, honor and cherish this truck till debt do you part????

This is a commitment that only the brave, boneheaded, and wealthy would consider...

If it was me and I had the resources...I'd buy it...

 

[Captain Ledd]

If you keep it to reasonable tires 4x4 should work well. Gearing plays a huge part in that.

It'll never be fast, stock and regularly maintained they should be comparable to pretty much any other engine in terms of longevity. Supposedly parts are around, but you need to know where to look for them (I don't), there's a lot of older small diesels that are actually really common, everywhere else except the U.S. that is.

Really it's main draw is the mileage, which should be at least the high 30's if not flogged. And that it's an old diesel, should have the ability to run biodiesel with little complaint from the engine, and thus saving a TON of money.

 

[adsm08]

Supposedly parts are around, but you need to know where to look for them (I don't)

Forklift places. The engine in the Ranger was a 4D55, which is still used in a lot of forklifts.