I have been looking for a newer ranger for several weeks now(more like months). But can't make my mind up if i wanna get another 4x2 or change it to a 4x4.

These are the 4x2 one's that are still for sale that i looked at:
https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/5940306391.html
https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/5888428082.html

4x4 Rangers i looked at:
https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/5886765281.html
https://southjersey.craigslist.org/ctd/5937799762.html

Let me know what you guys think.

 

I guess it really depends on how you will end up using the truck and where you currently live.

For example, where I live now, I have no use for a 4x4 as there is very little snow if it even snows at all. And I really don't offroad here therefore my 2003 4x2 gets the job done. However, if and when we ever move back to Colorado I will want a 4x4 due to the amount of snow and awesome 4x4 trails.

And then there's the saying: "It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it."

If you are in Jersey and you get a lot of snow then I would opt for the 4x4. But that is only my opinion.

 

+1 ^^^

Power windows, power door locks, keyless entry, 4WD are all just adding more things that can go wrong, lol.

BUT...............if you want or need them then choice is simple

Avoid
2003 to 2006 Rangers with 3.0l engine, bad valve seats, unless new heads installed
2001 to 2005 4.0l SOHC engines had bad timing chains, unless repaired, then they are OK

 

RonD thank you for the avoid List.

4X4 is something you would rather have and not use. Than not have and need. The only time the 4X4 effects gas mileage is when used. Since you have owned the 4X2 version. Then you know how it handles in your area. This would be a change you make if you want. Personally every SUV I have had has had 4X4. Including my current Ranger. I use it in the snow and on the beach. These are my opinions. I hope they help you. When I sold trucks for both Ford and Chevrolet. It was rare on a new truck someone wanted a 4X2. Even in the SUV's. With the extra weight over the rear tires. Customers still preferred 4X4. I'm in Ohio.

Jim

 

I thought it was 2004-2006?

 

2004-2006 is Ford's TSB range, many 2003 3.0l also suffered same fate.
Never seen it in 2007 3.0l though

As another example:
Pretty much everyone knows the 1997 to 2005 4.0l SOHC engines had timing chain issues

Here is Ford's TSB range on that:
Ford: 99-02 Explorer, 01-02 Sport Trac, Explorer Sport, Ranger
Mercury: 99-02 Mountaineer
*Noise - Rattle noise from primary timing chain drive area between 2K-3K RPM - Cold engine operation only - vehicles equipped with 4.0L SOHC Engine only
Some vehicles equipped with the 4.0 SOHC (Single Over-Head Cam) engine may exhibit a Primary Timing Chain rattle noise. The noise is audible during hot and cold engine operation (but predominantly found on cold engines) under acceleration, typically at 2400-2500 rpm.

 

https://southjersey.craigslist.org/ctd/5945517735.html

I think i might have found one that will suit all my needs in one package. If i am lucky i will be able to have that extra $1000 to spend on it

 

Yea, that's true. I'm just worried because my truck is a May 2003 production truck. But I'm at 120,000 miles and haven't noticed any problems. I figure if the valves were to recess into their seats, it would have happened by now.