New ranger owner from Detroit

[Char446]

Hey guys my name is Charlie I just bought my first truck a 1997 ranger 2.3 5 speed I really like it but I just noticed the transmission crossmember bushings are shot ? and I can’t seem to find replacements anywhere I’m hoping so of the ranger pros can give me some ideas and information on what to do I have some nice plans for the truck but if I can’t fix that problem I’m gonna be screwed

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

1997, nice year, a few things about it
Its the last year of 2nd generation Rangers, 1993-1997
1st gen, 1983-1992
3rd gen 1998-2012

2nd and 3rd gen parts are almost all the same, almost is the key word
1st gen were slight smaller trucks

1998 and up used different fuel system, Returnless, running 50+ PSI
1997 and earlier used Return style with 30psi

1997 was last year of the 2.3l SOHC Lima engine in Rangers, 1998-2001 had stroked version of this 2.3l, a 2.5l SOHC Lima
The 2.3l and 2.5l were the same engine, just different crank and connecting rods

Ford changed Rangers to a 2.3l DOHC Duratec engine mid-year 2001, totally different engine than the 2.3l SOHC Lima.
So heads up on searches using just Ranger 2.3l, you will get mixed results and conflicting info

2.3l Lima uses a Timing Belt, it needs to be replaced every 80-100k miles
2.3l Lima is a non-interference engine, Valve and Pistons can not hit each other, so a broken timing belt can strand you but will not cause engine damage.

2.3l Lima is also called the "Pinto engine", it was first used in 1974 Ford Pintos and last used in 1997 Rangers
It is a good reliable engine, also used in Ford Mustangs from 1975 to 1993

LMC truck is a good place to look for body and some chassis parts: http://www.lmctruck.com/
Select Ford and Ranger(not Pickup) and 1983-11

Transmission mounts seen here: http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/fr/full.aspx?Page=101

 

[Char446]

Thanks that’s helpful information I’ll keep that in mind when doin updates and repairs

 

[Ranger850]

Welcome to the club