1986 Ford Ranger XLT 2.3L 4 cylinder
Summary:
A dependable run-of-the-mill truck
Faults:
Nothing major so far. Occasionally, it begins missing on rainy days. I suspect the problem is the distributor cap may be cracked, causing moisture to leak into it.
There's a lot of rust on the exterior along with the floor-boards in the interior. This is most likely because it came from Michigan, where they salt the roads when it snows. Salt eats away at metal. The previous owner must not have known this and didn't bother to wash the salt off.
If the truck is "cold" then it will not crank up on the first try--ever. I don't know why, but it always cranks on the second try, flawlessly. No sputters, nothing. Perhaps the fuel pump is to blame.
General Comments:
I just turned 16 and got my license. I chose this to be my first car. I have had it for about 2 months now and have been driving it for about a month. This low budget truck fits right into my price range. At only $600, It is a wonderful buy.
This truck is amazingly reliable. It starts on queue, mind you always on the second try. It handles great, especially after adding wider, shorter tires on it.
When I first got it, it needed a tune-up. It had a new air filter and muffler that the previous owner replaced before I bought it. I have, so far, changed the oil and the fuel filter. I am still planning on changing plug wires, distributor cap (especially if its cracked), and the spark plugs. I'm sure running some fuel injector cleaner though it wouldn't hurt either.
All-in-all, this is a great first vehicle. Cheap on gas, reliable, and somewhat comfortable for 6' of height. I recommend this truck for anyone who needs a dependable ride, on a low budget. I wouldn't expect it to win a beauty contest though.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 19th July, 2003
9th Jan 2006, 16:51
Amen Brother. I just bought my ranger about 2 months ago, and all I have had to do is put a new clutch in it. I have the v6 and it has plenty of power. My dad painted it for me at around $120, and it looks awesome. I also have to start it 2 times, probably problem with the electronis ignition. 4x4 works great in snow, mud, etc. All around great truck for a low price. FORD RULES!!!1.
Newman #17.
20th Aug 2006, 17:27
I just bought a 1986 Ranger with only 65,000 miles on it. I am happy to see all the positive comments on here about this truck. This truck is in mint condition and I hope to have it for a very long time.
16th Feb 2008, 11:47
My buddy said he knows a guy with an 85' ranger with 85k original miles and he'd take $500 for it, think I might buy it. Also were all the 4 bangers diesel for this year?
22nd Mar 2004, 19:35
How to repair a hole in the floor. Grinder, sheet metal, welder. Cut around the hole to remove rot, grind rust off the surrounding metal, get a square of sheet metal, weld it to the remaining metal, paint on either side with a decent anti rust type paint.