Target Audience:
Owners of 1996-2005 Ford Ranger and Mazda Drifter vehicles seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics.
Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective solution for vehicle upkeep compared to dealership labor costs. Offers comprehensive factory-level information.
Illustrations Photos:
Hundreds of photos and detailed illustrations to guide repair procedures.
Completeness:
100% complete and intact, covering complete disassembly and reassembly.
Usability:
Written for both novice DIYers and experienced mechanics, with step-by-step instructions.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control system (ECU).
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveline, axles, transfer case (if applicable).
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS if equipped).
Electrical Systems:
Starting and charging system, lighting system, instrumentation, power distribution, body electrical components, chassis electronics.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, climate control system, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, lubrication.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly of major systems, specific repair techniques.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problems and solutions, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Covers complete disassembly and reassembly.
Engine 1:
2.5L 4-Cylinder (e.g., WL-T diesel, 2.5L gasoline)
Engine 2:
3.0L V6 (e.g., Vulcan OHV)
Engine 3:
4.0L V6 (e.g., Cologne OHV, SOHC)
Horsepower Range:
Typically ranging from 112 hp (2.5L diesel) to 210 hp (4.0L SOHC V6).
Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine, with V6 engines offering higher torque for hauling.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) or Port Fuel Injection (PFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Diesel (for specific variants).
Transmission Type 1:
Manual Transmission (e.g., 5-speed).
Transmission Type 2:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4-speed, 5-speed).
Driveline Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and Four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations available.
Transfer Case:
Manual or electronic shift transfer case for 4WD models.
Wheelbase Options:
Short wheelbase and long wheelbase configurations.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (SuperCab).
Bed Length Options:
Various bed lengths (e.g., 6-foot, 7.5-foot).
Curb Weight Range:
Varies significantly based on configuration (engine, cab, drivetrain), typically 3,000 - 4,500 lbs.
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally received mixed safety ratings; specific year-by-year results should be consulted.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models, especially later years.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models within the 1996-2005 timeframe. Passenger airbag availability increased over the years.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific intervals, generally around 30,000 - 100,000 miles depending on transmission type and usage.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000 - 100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type.
Engine Oil Type:
Varies by engine. Common specifications include 5W-30, 5W-20, 10W-30. Consult manual for precise API service classification.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V or Mercon LV (check specific transmission requirements).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (viscosity varies, consult manual).
Coolant Type:
Conventional green ethylene glycol coolant or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, depending on year and original fill.
Common Problems 1:
Frame rust (particularly in areas with road salt), minor electrical issues (e.g., power window regulators), exhaust manifold cracks (on some V6 engines), rear main seal leaks.
Common Problems 2:
Transmission shifting issues (automatic), clutch wear (manual), suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods).
Ford Truck Legacy:
Built on Ford's long-standing reputation for durable and capable pickup trucks.
Generation Details:
This period covers the second generation of the Ford Ranger (UN/UG platform) and its rebadged variant, the Mazda Drifter (primarily for international markets).
Manufacturing Locations:
Produced in various global locations, including North America (USA) and South Africa.
