New guy here. Looking to buy a 98, got Q's

[speedfreak87]

Looking to buy a 98 4.0 4x4, and as long as it's not sold, will be checking it out this week. has roughly 154 on the clock.
New Alternator
New Battery
New 4 Wheel drive front hubs cause the old ones went bad
New 4x4 motor that switches it into 4-wheel drive
Transfer Case and Tranny Fluid Recently Changed
New Air Filter


what else do I need to look at or should I know about the ranger?

From what I've seen, these things hold their value which to me, means they don't have many issues.

 

[adsm08]

It will be a nice on-road snow and moving truck. I would go 97 back if you want a trail truck.

The 98+ 4x4s have the independent front end that is nice on the highway but doesn't hold up as well on the trail. I've driven both, and I really didn't notice a huge difference in ride.

I'd also look for a manual t-case. You probably won't need it right away, but I'd just kind of keep an eye out while browsing craigslist or on junk yard trips. The electric 4x4 isn't as reliable as the manual.

The trans should be a good strong 4R44E though. That's a good strong trans that doesn't have a lot of problems.

Should make you a good DD truck.

 

[speedfreak87]

It will be a nice on-road snow and moving truck. I would go 97 back if you want a trail truck.

The 98+ 4x4s have the independent front end that is nice on the highway but doesn't hold up as well on the trail. I've driven both, and I really didn't notice a huge difference in ride.

I'd also look for a manual t-case. You probably won't need it right away, but I'd just kind of keep an eye out while browsing craigslist or on junk yard trips. The electric 4x4 isn't as reliable as the manual.

The trans should be a good strong 4R44E though. That's a good strong trans that doesn't have a lot of problems.

Should make you a good DD truck.

No trails for me. mainly snow.

 

[adsm08]

should be a good truck for you then.

 

[speedfreak87]

should be a good truck for you then.

Is there any major issues I need to be concerned about with these?

 

[Original_Ranger84]

Is there any major issues I need to be concerned about with these?

Well the electronic transfer case and vacuum hubs are really the only big issues that aren't immediately spotted by driving or looking at it. but since both have been replace I would assume they should work fairly well.

 

[speedfreak87]

Well the electronic transfer case and vacuum hubs are really the only big issues that aren't immediately spotted by driving or looking at it. but since both have been replace I would assume they should work fairly well.

OK, is there a way to test the 4wd with out going off road? sorry for the stupid questions, it's my first truck.

 

[Original_Ranger84]

Well if you put it in 4x4... the front drive shaft should start to spin. So put it in 4x4 and start moving and stick your head under the truckand look to see if the drive shaft spins. If so that means atleast one of the new things is working, be it the shifter motor or the hubs or both are working. To test the 4x4 All I can say is either put it in 4x4 and jack up the front then spin the individual tires and watch to see if the cv axles spin with the tire (that would let you know if the hubs are working) and then try and spin the front drive shaft, if you can't spin it but more jiggle it back and forth then the T case engaged, if you can spin it freely then the shift motor is bad or out of alignment.

Also take note that the electronic 4x4 is picky and may take a minute or so to actually engage. Another thing is test to see if both 4x4 hi and 4x4 lo engage, in 4hi you just turn the knob, but in low I think you have to have it in neutral with the brake on and then turn to 4lo.

edit: actually to test if the hubs engage you don't even have to jack it up, just reach under and grab the cv axle on each tire and see if it spins freely or if it is locked in with the wheel.

 

[speedfreak87]

OK, awesome, thanks! I'll either be a new ranger owner, or I wont. lol!

 

[frankserrano]

OK, awesome, thanks! I'll either be a new ranger owner, or I wont. lol!

i've got 98 4.0 4x4 and it's a damn good truck. i have no regrets in buying it, whatsoever. sooooo nice in the mud too

 

[speedfreak87]

auto trans or manual?

 

[Original_Ranger84]

OH and hte other ting is a Manual trans is always better, the new autos are good but nothing can beat the reliable manual transmission.

 

[Toms01PSD]

The trans should be a good strong 4R44E though. That's a good strong trans that doesn't have a lot of problems.

Since when did Ford put the 4R44E behind the 4.0? I have yet to see one behind the 4.0. The combo has always been 4.0/5R55E/8.8.

I'd like some proof if i'm wrong.

From the tech library:
Trans Code Vehicle
5R55E D 1997 - 2009 4.0L Rangers (1997-2001 Explorer w/4.0L)
4R55E T 1995-2001 4.0L Rangers

 

[Toms01PSD]

auto trans or manual?

You will get mixed answers on that. I like the autos.

 

[speedfreak87]

I know manuals are better, this one has an auto. just want to know what I'm getting into with it.