Just bought a 1999 xlt ranger

[JDR1999]

Hey I'm Jordan from Windsor Ontario. Last year I bought a civic but recently decided I needed a truck, so I went a found a good condition 1999 xlt reg cab 3.0 2wd ranger. I'm very happy with my purchase but there is a small leak on the oil pan due to rust.
I plan on fixing that soon and I have already bought a thrush welded muffler and side exit pipes. Just wondering if anyone had any tips / cheap things I could do to the truck. ( I work part time so money is kinda an issue right now )

 

[Mark_88]

Welcome to TRS Jordan~!

Congratulations on the purchase...or find...I can't think of anything that costs little that will really help with your truck...but, then again...not sure what you want to accomplish.

The 3.0 is nicknamed by some as the 3.slow...so performance may be an issue...but nothing that is inexpensive will do anything more than relieve you of that extra money you thought you had from the GST checks...

If you get the Trillium fund tax break it's a bit better but it also won't be enough to do more than buy your girl dinner and top up the tank...

You can remove things that you don't need to save on gas if that is an issue...lighter is better for fuel consumption...to a point. Removing the box is not a good idea, but removing things like jump seats, extra stuff like grannies ashes from behind the seat (if she smokes or was cremated)...extra tools...wood or metal that you don't need to haul around if you have some place to put them...

It's probably better to invest extra money in things that will prolong the vehicle so you don't get nailed with expensive repairs or that will allow you to sell it for more than scrap metal prices...and there are tons of things you can do yourself to help that...like checking for rust and preventing it from spreading...or even removing the box and doing a proper job on the frame and underside of the box to keep it alive longer...

Rust belt...it's gonna get you one way or another unless you are diligent and stay on top of things...

Above all else...have fun...enjoy the truck for what it is and that it can earn you extra cash by hauling stuff that other people can't or scrap metal collecting if they allow it in your area...

 

[XLTsplash]

Welcome, If you want to fix up your truck with out spending much money I would start checking the wrecking yards in your area. You can find options and upgrade parts from other Rangers and Explorers too. Things like wheels, bumpers grilles, valances and parts can be a cheaper at a wrecking yard. You should post some pictures of your Ranger so we can give you better ideas.