Jim Oaks, founder of The Ranger Station, Ford Ranger expert and automotive enthusiast

Jim Oaks – Ford Ranger Expert & Automotive Journalist

About Jim

Jim Oaks, born in 1967 and based in Nocona, Texas, is a retired state trooper turned full-time automotive enthusiast and adventure seeker. When he’s not keeping The Ranger Station running, he’s working on his vehicles, upgrading his shop, doing home improvements, or exploring the outdoors — either with the Vagabonds on organized adventures or on spontaneous solo getaways. His adventures can be found documented here, in the forum, or on YouTube.

Jim brings decades of hands-on experience with 4×4 builds, suspension upgrades, Dana 44 swaps, and solid axle conversions. His guides emphasize reliability, safety, and practical solutions for Ford Ranger owners, whether they’re tackling a weekend trail ride or a serious off-road project.

Philosophy & Approach

Jim Oaks created The Ranger Station as a gathering point and resource for Ford Ranger owners and enthusiasts. His goal has never been to gain followers or build a personal brand — he has always approached the site as a fellow enthusiast sharing knowledge, experiences, and solutions. Every guide, article, and build project is rooted in real-world experience, hands-on problem-solving, and a desire to help others get the most out of their trucks.

Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.

Whether you’re tackling a suspension upgrade, exploring overlanding options, or planning a complete Ranger build, Jim’s approach is practical, honest, and grounded in decades of personal experience. The Ranger Station exists to empower owners to make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and enjoy the process of building and modifying their Rangers.

Jim’s Ford Rangers

Connect with Jim

About The Author

Founder / Administrator at  | Staff Profile

Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space.

Since launching TheRangerStation.com, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road adventures contributed by owners worldwide. TheRangerStation.com has been referenced in print, video and online by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, and experience-based information.