Small Pickups

[Scruggs Family]

I have a '98 Ford Ranger XLT with 173k miles on it that I bought used in '00
at 24k..  It was my commuter for about 8 years and has spent a lifetime on
the D.C. Beltway.  With Bilsteins and low profile Kumhos I could surprise
much more expensive hardware on the off ramps.  The automatic is a touch
sluggish to downshift and the 4.0 V6 is willing but thirsty.  The serpentine
accessory belt takes about 30 sec to change but if your alternator should
seize then it will destroy the belt, stop the water pump and your engine may
overheat, warp the heads and blow the head gaskets.  There is no need to
speculate how I know this.  I've used synthetics this entire time and it
uses no oil between changes.  

It has not had a pampered life.  I know that it will repeatedly carry 2000lb
of paving stones and the speed limiter kicks in at about 105mph.  It's about
as sophisticated as a clothespin and about as reliable.  It has not been
trouble free but troubleshooting has been easy and parts are relatively
cheap and junkyards have an adequate supply of them.  There are user groups
out there that are quite willing to help with any problem or modification.
Now days my truck is semi-retired and used only for trips to the dump and
Home Depot and for emergency backup.  Knowing what I know I would do it
again.  YMMV.

Regards,
Gross Scruggs
Annapolis, MD