Hello and Help - 2009 Ranger 4.0L Newbie to Offroading

[redondomark]

Hello,

I am newbie to 4x4s and in the process of looking at & buying a 2009 XL Ranger, 4.0L, automatic, 4H & 4L, open front & rear differentials (rear is an open 8.8 inch with a 3.73 ratio).

My primary goal is to do some light to medium off roading / camping (80% daily driver 20% weekend warrior).

I have looked at the forum's resources and found a lot of valuable information - very well done!

That said, I am seeking a better understanding of the drive train system.

- Per this link (https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/the-ford-ranger-4wd-system/) I understood that my XL would have only the right rear that spins and the left front when in 4wheel drive.​

​

- At the same I link it also states the following for the front end: "From 2001-2011, the Ford Ranger used a ‘Live Axle’ setup, which simply meant that the front wheel spindle was permanently connected to the front axle, and could not be unlocked."​

​

- I called the my local 4 Wheel Parts store today and they told me that all 4 wheels are being driven at all times with the open differential. Further, if I had a situation where the front left was stuck in the air, or spinning on a rock, that is when the truck would NOT transfer the power to the front right (because no LSD or locker).​

Can someone please validate if indeed the vehicle I am thinking of buying drives all 4 wheels when in 4 wheel drive? Is the explanation from the 4 Wheel Parts store correct?

Thank you very much for your time and help!!

 

[89Twincharge]

You are correct open diff only spins one wheel... I'm sure for primarily a dd that could be perfect although having at least rear lsd would be a great benefit! It is something that you could upgrade to so dont let that persuade your purchase especially if it's a good deal! I'm building a 2wd off road camping ranger with 3,73 lsd and I'm not concerned about getting stuck, with my winch, shovels, jack's and snatch blocks to overcome not having 4wd!