Buying an 01 today - Question re codes etc

[Zapp]

I need some of you smart guys to help me again.
I looked at an 01 stretchcab yesterday, 3.0, 5 speed, 113K miles. checked out ok except I forgot to take my code reader with me. it has a check-engine light on. they guy claimed to not know what it was but suspects 02 sensor.
I'll find out.

If it does turn out to be the O2 sensor, what is the cost of that part? Are there 2 of them? should they be replaced together as a pair? Can I get to them myself with ordinary toolkit?

Also, I've seen a couple of posts here about the Synchronizer being a trouble-spot item. Is that true of the 2001, and what do I need to do to prevent a failure?

thank you
Z

 

[Viva*the*Ranger]

A buddy of mine had a similer problem. P0135, which is O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction. That may or may not be your problem, you will just have to pull the codes to be sure. You should be able to r&r with you basic tool kit. At least I can on my 03.

 

[Zapp]

we shall see..

what about the 'synchronizer' ???
is it just a poorly-manufactured part or what? if I replace it, do I replace it with ford part or other?
Same question about O2 sensors... Ford/Motocraft or other? which?

I had a 3.0L in my old mercury sable, circa 1990 or so, and it would routinely get >30mpg on the highway and very smooth performer. how come the ranger 3.0 is so lousy on gas?

 

[Viva*the*Ranger]

If you’re going to replace any parts, I would stick with ford/motorcraft for sure. You may be able to find other brands for much cheaper but they are NOT worth it. I have never had a problem with my synchronizer so I don't have much to offer on that topic.

There are a lot of factors on the sable vs. ranger gas consumption question. Gearing/tire size, engine management, transmission, weight and the sole purpose of vehicle. If you have 4 wheel drive, there are a lot more moving part too.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

O2 sensors are about $80 a pop. that truck should have 3, but only the forward 2 need to be replaced routinely (O2 sensors DO wear out). with that many miles, it wouldnt be a bad idea to go ahead and replace them.

but you need to pull the code to see what it is. it could be litterally hundreds of things.

the syncronizer took the place of the distributor in 1995. the problem is they tend to wear out and can cause major engine damage if they fail. you can check it by pulling it out and spinning it by hand, looking for any play (wobble) or roughness/noise in turning. or you can just replace it every 100K and be safe (another $80 or so).

my 3.0 4x4 ranger gets 22-24MPG...and i drive like a moron. keep it well maintained and let the engine rev and it'll be happy.

 

[Zapp]

thanks guys. I'll definitely pull the synchronizer.
I'll report back when I get the code figured out