98 Ranger Oil Level

[conyers73]

I have a 98 Ranger with a 2.5- 4 banger. I changed the oil the other day and checked the owner's manual for capacity amount. Manual said 4.5 quarts with oil filter change. When I checked the oil after the change( I let it run for 5 minutes) and let it drain down, the dipstick showed 1/4" above min. So I added the remaining 1/2 qt. and it measured half way between the min. and max. The question is, if I added another quart ( to register full ) will it blow it out ?

 

[adsm08]

Ford issues their oil capacity specs to put you about halfway between min and max. I would not add another full quart, nor would I attempt to get it right on the max mark. While the effect is not as noticeable as with coolant or tranny fluid oil will expand when it gets hot, so leave some expansion room.

But you don't want it on the min mark either, because all engines use or leak some oil, and you will go below the min mark then. Right on half is about the best spot. You just have to check the oil level from time to time.

 

[RonD]

Yes, ^^^ +1

"dipstick" is a remarkably accurate and precise measuring instrument, NOT

Dipstick is a "ballpark" measurement, 1/2way between min. and full is where you want to be

5-quarts is about right for completely drained system, 4.5 quarts is for DIYers who drain cold engine and end up leaving some behind.
Ford knows it is easier to add the 1/2 quart than to remove it

 

[tomw]

The spec I have at hand for my old Ranger is one more quart than I put in. I have put in all 6 as specified, and it has eaten the oil down quickly afterward. I now just put in 5. This is a stamped oil pan 1985 2.3 with EFI. The level on the stick is in the safe range with 5 quarts, so I figure why waste it.
tom

 

[conyers73]

98 Ranger OIL level

Thanks for all your help guys.


conyers73

 

[XLTsplash]

I run 5 quarts and a FL1A in my 1997 2.3L and my Dad did that same with his 2000 Ranger 2.5L.

 

[WarHawk-AVG]

I have always put 5 quarts in...seems Ford loves 5 quarts...

Sent from my 9006W using Tapatalk