Looking at a 97 Ranger for $3200 but the horn doesnt work. Should I run from it?

[askthemasses]

Looking at this truck this afternoon. 164k miles and the only mechanical issues that the owner knows of is that it needs an alignment and that the horn doesn't work. I'm happy taking it in for an alignment, but about the horn- is that likely a chill project or does that usually get way complicated? Is this a common issue on these Rangers? I've worked on cars before, am not great with electrical, and have never torn apart a steering wheel so I want to get a little idea of what I'm getting myself into.
Any feedback appreciated!

 

[Denisefwd93]

Only mechanical issues the owner knows of... and you believe that?
32 for a 97 I don't know...

 

[chewy012]

I'm willing to bet it's simply just the wire at the horn connection. Or, the horn itself behind the grill. Or live without a horn...... Its not that bad.

Sent from my VS988 using Tapatalk

 

[askthemasses]

I'm willing to bet it's simply just the wire at the horn connection. Or, the horn itself behind the grill. Or live without a horn...... Its not that bad.

Sent from my VS988 using Tapatalk

I don't care about a horn, but the state does. Needs it to pass inspection.

 

[askthemasses]

Only mechanical issues the owner knows of... and you believe that?
32 for a 97 I don't know...

I'm sure there are more things and of course I'll do my best to find them. Probably could talk down to the 2800 range.

 

[Denisefwd93]

20 + years old you should be expecting a lot more, and planning on fixing even more than that! It's an old truck .

I'm sure there are more things and of course I'll do my best to find them. Probably could talk down to the 2800 range.

 

[dennis461]

don't do it

Do not buy it.
The model changed a lot after 1998, 1997 and earlier parts are getting scarce.

as for the horn..
I would NOT start at the steering wheel.
The horn is behind the drivers side front bumper. Gets hit with a lot of water all the time.
Find the connector there, and cut it off. Strip the wire back until you find clean copper and connect a Pep-Boys horn (after testing with a voltmeter..

While under the truck, look for rusted out spring hangers and frame (before buying).

 

[askthemasses]

Do not buy it.
The model changed a lot after 1998, 1997 and earlier parts are getting scarce.

So go with 98 or later? Also, I just finished restoring an 84 Grand Wagoneer- so scarce parts are the story of my life

 

[RonD]

There were 3 generations of Rangers
1983 to 1992 is Gen 1(1989-1992 Gen 1.5, lol)
Rangers got larger here
1993 to 1997 Gen 2
1998 to 2012 Gen 3

Gen 2 and 3 are almost the same so parts are interchangeable for the most part
Fuel system changed, from Return style running 30psi, to Returnless running 60psi

 

[Ranger Mark]

Not that this helps you, but I picked up a '96 with 85k miles. Needed tailgate latch, interior dome and radio plus some small shit. Paid $2,300 for it in So. Cal. Seller has to want it gone more than you want it.

I love this truck.

You can use parts off explorers, that's what I do.

 

[askthemasses]

Not that this helps you, but I picked up a '96 with 85k miles. Needed tailgate latch, interior dome and radio plus some small shit. Paid $2,300 for it in So. Cal. Seller has to want it gone more than you want it.

I love this truck.

You can use parts off explorers, that's what I do.

Yea I didn't get this truck, but one that had been sitting in some guys yard for a year. 2000 extended cab 150k miles, $1500. I put new tires on it and have fixed up a bunch of other things- some necessary, some for peace of mind. But overall won't have spent more than $3,000 for a great running truck.