Workshop manuals

[1992redranger]

Was thinking I’d pull the trigger and get a complete workshop manual so that I can look everything up on my own. Only question is, what year manuals are transferable to my year? And can I just get a Ford Ranger manual rather than a Mazda B-series manual? Ranger ones seem to be more abundant/cheaper on EBay.

Basically I need a workshop manual that works for a 2002 Mazda B3000. I don’t care what year or badge is on it, as long as the info is correct. What years/models would work?

As always thank you in advance.

 

[Colin]

Should be able to find the correct one on ebay

 

[1992redranger]

Like, would a 2002 Ford Ranger workshop manual give me everything I need for a 2002 B3000? I know people say they’re basically the same except for badges, but is that true as far as the manual is concerned?

2002 ford ranger manual is $45: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1351963530...pqaa1ptrc2&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

And 2002 b-series manual (cheapest/only one I can find) is $167: https://www.ebay.com/itm/3754930000...pqaa1ptrc2&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

If they’re the same, I think the choice is obvious. Just trying to figure out if they’re the same…

 

[Colin]

There would just be some wiring differences for the lights, I'm surprised there's such a price difference. I paid around $100 cdn for mine a few years ago. Is there a digital copy available for cheaper?

 

[Roert42]

The B series manual is more expensive because it’s a used paper manual.

The first link is for a USB with digital copy on it.

Used hard copies can be expensive.

Check to make sure you’re getting the whole thing. A lot of times there are multiple volumes for the manual. Plus the electric is almost always separate.

 

[rumblecloud]

Worth a try...
Here is a link to a discussion of online manuals
Online service manuals

There are two pages in this string and it is an old discussion. However, scroll down to an entry from DISGORGE and follow the links.

If you are semi computer literate, you can figure it out. I downloaded the 94 Ranger version for myself and it looks pretty good.

Again, worth a try

 

[1992redranger]

Thanks for all the input and help, everyone. @rumblecloud this is an excellent resource, thank you for sharing. I found exactly what I needed: 2002 Mazda Truck B3000 DS Regular Cab 2WD V6-3.0L OHV. Good to go.

 

[Bill]

Get a library card. Many public libraries have online repair manuals. Mostly Chilton's, but some have Alldata or others. If your local library doesn't have a subscription check other local library systems to see if they have it and if they will give people outside their area access. College and university libraries might also have them, for those who have current enrollment or have alumni access.

As to Ford vs Mazda shop manuals, either will work, but I've found some things on the B-series are different for no reason. Like the PCV valve on the 2007 2.3L. They are slightly different for the two brands. Also, I think Mazda continued to use the calipers that were used on the 98 through about 2004 Rangers. So, the brake pads numbers for a 2007 Mazda isn't going to be the same as a 2007 Ranger. But, you can buy the 2007 calipers and bolt them on and work around that issue.

So, verify part numbers on Rockauto.