Thinking about F150 to upgrade from Ranger

[96firephoenix]

So I've scouted an '03 F150 flareside with the 4.2v6 and 5sp... 2WD... At practically Ranger pricing...

Before you reply with "don't get rid of your ranger, rangers are the best trucks on the planet" know this: if I was 5'9" and not 6'2", we wouldn't even be having this conversation. I do really like the ranger, but it just doesn't have a large enough cab for me to be comfortable in. Getting out of the Ranger and into the F150 cab was like going from a full size bed to a king size - just so much more space.

It's got the usual rocker panel/cab corner rust, and some odd corrosion pattern in the engine bay - definitely going to check if it was plated in the gulf area in the 04-06 timeline

Any other red flags to be on the lookout for?

I plan on the typical purchases immediately after a new-to-me vehicle, such as shocks/springs, fluids all flushed,

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

If it is extended cab I think you will want more omph. Std cab will probably be ok.

I went to a F-150 in 2005 for the same reason. For the same price as a new Ranger I got a 3 year old '150 with 25k... still have it.

I am 6'3", the room is very nice. I kept the Ranger around and still fold myself into its std cab for "fun"

 

[RonD]

I am 6'5" and drive a Ranger BECAUSE of the head room, extended cab to be sure but no seat changes.

Not that it matters but most of the newer fullsize seem to have seats that even when lowered all the way have me up to high, have to bend down to see stop lights if I am first or second at the light.
Newer Rangers may be the same, 1994 is the newest I have owned/driven, and earlier ones have fit just fine

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I'm driving an 04 f150 heritage extended cab with the 4.6/auto, 270,000 km. The trans is weak. It's hauling all my hand tools and sometimes ladders on the ladder rack. I also tow a 14' trailer with all my ladders, metal brake, siding equipment and sometimes material. It's OK, but I like the 5.4 better for towing. I've also owned a '04 f150 extended cab 5.4/auto and a '97 reg cab 4.2/5spd. My choice for work would be the 5.4. For just general driving any would do just fine.

 

[96firephoenix]

I should amend, my current ranger and the potential F150 are both standard cabs.

If the Ranger was an extended cab, I would probably also not be having this conversation.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Not that it matters but most of the newer fullsize seem to have seats that even when lowered all the way have me up to high, have to bend down to see stop lights if I am first or second at the light.
Newer Rangers may be the same, 1994 is the newest I have owned/driven, and earlier ones have fit just fine

Probably not that you are so high but that you are farther back.