The Ranger has 186,00 just put in new clutch, new wheels,tires, valve cover gasket, power steering pump,front wheel bearings, rear pinion seal , paint ,to name a few . All in last 2 years.
A few days ago I started it , put in gear and it made the most horrific grinding metal sound ever. Up to this it drove great. It did this twice. Now it drives like nothing happend, I took it to mechanic and was told it needs
1.Cylinder Head Gaskets 2. Radiator Hoses 3. Sway Bar Bushings 4.Manual Transmission Assembly all for $4,600 .
With 186,00 miles I dont know if I should do this. Is this model 2000 2.5L XLT considerd a good year? I put alot into this allready , Any advice welcome . Does $4,600 sound fair?

 

Did this so called mechanic say WHY it needs the head gasket and new transmission? The other stuff is normal wear items and probably do need to be replaced.
Are you currently driving it?