Introduction & Question: Buying a used Ford Ranger? Reliability of motors / tranny?

[AR-Trvlr]

Introduction & Question: Buying a used Ford Ranger? Reliability of motors / tranny?

Hi All - I just found this site, and it's a bit like trying to drink from a fire-hose. I've got a broad question if some of you will have the patience to bear with me.....

I'm planning on replacing my '94 Ranger (200K miles, 4-cyl., 5-speed, standard cab) with something a bit newer. Ideally around 2001 w/ 100k miles, but otherwise similar. I've got some general questions if anyone has any input:

1) Transmission - I prefer manuals, especially with smaller motors. They also seem a bit cheaper over the long run. How bad are the automatics, though? With normal maintenance are they good for 200k? More? Less?

2) Motors - I'm leaning towards another 4-cylinder based on price and gas mileage. Which motors (with normal maintenance) last better? The 4-cylinder, 3.0/v-6, or 4.0/v-6?

3) My goal is to find something for around KBB 'private party' price - is this a pipe dream? Folks seem to be asking significantly more than that around here.....

Thanks!

 

[exbass94]

A lot of people are gonna tell you the automatics are crap. But with normal maintenance they can go over 150k easy. But you really need to maintain them (fluid changes!!) and keep them cool.

 

[Danger FX4 Ranger]

1) Transmission - I prefer manuals, especially with smaller motors. They also seem a bit cheaper over the long run. How bad are the automatics, though? With normal maintenance are they good for 200k? More? Less?

Not sure what the life span of the newer automatics are (which the rangers you are looking for will have), but they seem to be a big improvement over the A4LD automatics ford used during the early 90's. Most people will tell you that a manual will last longer .

2) Motors - I'm leaning towards another 4-cylinder based on price and gas mileage. Which motors (with normal maintenance) last better? The 4-cylinder, 3.0/v-6, or 4.0/v-6?

The 4-cylinders seem to have an excellent life span. If you do decide to go with a V6, the 3.0 is bullet proof according to most users on this forum. One of the forum moderators once made the statement "if you are able to kill the 3.0 (V6), you shouldn't be allowed to operate anything more complex than a refrigerator." The 4.0 V6 is a good choice if you want power, but it's reliability is more dependant on good maintenance.

3) My goal is to find something for around KBB 'private party' price - is this a pipe dream? Folks seem to be asking significantly more than that around here.....

Where have you been checking? Have you tried autotrader or craig's list?

 

[Shran]

Think of it this way...$150 for a clutch (parts) or between $1000 and $2000 for a rebuilt auto. Tranny shop guys tell you that you're better off with the auto because there's no clutch to replace, but the majority of their profit comes from rebuilt automatics. Better gas mileage with a manual too.

Any of the three engines is good. 4.0 would be my choice.

For pricing, I'd find one you like and check the book value for your area...if they're asking more than that, offer less, or walk away.

 

[joldtown]

I found my 02 last year for 7500.00. I paid a high price for a basically mint truck, and I have NO complaints. I would recommend this truck to anyone, who has basic mech. skills.
Just do the routine maint. and drive. I love my 02.