Ranger as an Expo Rig

[Halfbreedinkc]

So I'm seriously considering building an "expo"-style rig on the Ranger platform, and would welcome any input, opinions, comments, etc.

I know a lot of folks would say go with a full size truck/suv, but I don't need that much - gas prices are a major factor to a point, but since it's just me at this point in time, I don't need the extra space.

Budget is a consideration, but I don't need anything extreme or radical - thinking a 2WD/4WD, extended cab with what I'd consider a mild build-up. Don't need 6/8 or more inches of lift, would rather a 3" or so suspension lift and beef up the stock components.

I had a Ranger back in 2000, wish I'd never gotten rid of it now. Come from a background of full-size "old" rigs (mid-80's) and Jeep XJ's (owned 4), but the utility of a truck is more what I need/want at this point.

So feel free to go for it, all ideas & input will be welcome.

 

[94FX_4wannaBE]

http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125680

check that.. straight baller.

 

[Halfbreedinkc]

http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=125680

check that.. straight baller.

THAT is impressive, almost exactly what I'm looking to build for myself...

 

[killj0y]

Wow that link looks like way more than what the OP mentioned baller for sure though. Lol

 

[Halfbreedinkc]

I'm gonna open this up a bit - and yes, I'm fishing for more opinions - I'm considering going with a 2WD instead of 4WD and then doing the lift, etc., and building an expo rig from that...so comments, suggestions, opinions?

 

[daniel3507]

You should check out safari pacific. He used a ranger and took it across north America. Its bad ass. there is a build thread here somewhere or his website

Sent from not an Iphone when i should be doing something important.

 

[Halfbreedinkc]

You should check out safari pacific. He used a ranger and took it across north America. Its bad ass. there is a build thread here somewhere or his website

Sent from not an Iphone when i should be doing something important.

I have - man that's an impressive rig he built, way too rich for this poor schlep, but...wow!

 

[Bennybooster]

I would never rely on 2wd when I am out in the middle of no where, especially alone. 4wd for expeditions no question

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I would never rely on 2wd when I am out in the middle of no where, especially alone. 4wd for expeditions no question

+1

Unless you are considering a custom powertrain (different engine/trans/tcase/axles) Then it doesn't really matter.

 

[Halfbreedinkc]

+1

Unless you are considering a custom powertrain (different engine/trans/tcase/axles) Then it doesn't really matter.

That's the way I was leaning, but wanted to get some input from others. I did a lot of wheeling in my younger days, out in AZ (long before there were any off-road spots), and all my rigs were 4WD...most times I didn't need it, but I sure felt a lot more confident having it.