Buying my first Ranger help

[6x6Tiger]

New to this forum hope I'm posting in the right spot... I am looking at buying a good everyday driving truck that is functional and in good shape within my budget. I have been looking for some time off and on and came across a 1988 Ford Ranger XLT, 4x4, 2.9l. When I talked to the owner he was not able to tell me much ( young college student) other than there is a little rust on the cab corners and that it has been well taken care of and maintained. I have not gone to look at it in person yet because it is a few hours drive, just looking for some guidance in whether this would be a good buy or should I move on.

Also posting a link to the ad.

https://eauclaire.craigslist.org/cto/5254294031.html

 

[bobbywalter]

wow!!

i love that thing....seems worth the 2500 to me.

 

[6x6Tiger]

I forgot to add the part about 188000 miles, is that a problem for rangers or just the miles required for engine break in?

 

[bobbywalter]

it is approaching 30 years of age....the miles are not much....just the age of everything in general.

 

[LIMA BEAN]

Woof thats a sweet Gen 1. My 88 was whorehouse red interior too but I fixed that, snag it. Show up with 2k cash, a good friend and 2x CCW in a public place.

 

[CaliNickXLT]

It looks nice but it is a 30 year old truck woth almost 200k. Take a good look at the motor and all the lines. 30 Years of heat and cold rot stuff away. I had to replace a bunch of vacum lines and all hoses under my hoof on my 99'. Though I do live in the So Cal desert.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk

 

[97RangerXLT]

That is a nice looking truck, especially for Wisconsin. Like everyone said take a close look at the mechanicals. 2500 is a bit high, but the condition is pretty excellent for the age and mileage.

AJ

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note 4 while sitting in my underwear

 

[redhurricane]

that's a fair price for a 27 year old truck. If the body/frame are in fact nearly rust free, go with cash in hand, offer $2K. Personally I would probably not give more than about $2200.

 

[Andy D]

2500 seems like a decent price, as long as the frame is intact. Even so, I wouldn't want a 27 yr old Ford to be my only vehicle.

 

[Mickey Bitsko]

Woof thats a sweet Gen 1. My 88 was whorehouse red interior too but I fixed that, snag it. Show up with 2k cash, a good friend and 2x CCW in a public place.

this ^^