Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck Segment
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier, Chevrolet S-10/Sonoma
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive DIY and professional repair information for a shared platform, reducing the need for multiple manuals.
Platform Sharing:
Covers vehicles built on a common platform, simplifying repair procedures across both brands.
Manufacturers Covered:
Mazda and Ford
Vehicle Models Covered:
Mazda B-Series, Ford Ranger
Model Years Covered:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1000 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, intake and exhaust systems
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, axles, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering
Brakes:
Brake system, front brakes (disc/drum), rear brakes (drum), parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, battery, lighting, gauges, instrument panel, power accessories, body electrical, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, frame, chassis components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I)
Repair Replacement:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul for all major systems
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component measurements
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair procedures, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Printable pages for on-hand reference
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Options:
2.3L (140 cu in) OHC Inline-4, 3.0L (183 cu in) OHC V6
Engine Code 2 3L:
WL-T (Mazda), RFA (Ford - some applications)
Engine Code 3 0L:
FE-DE (Mazda), Vulcan (Ford)
Horsepower 2 3L:
Approx. 100-110 hp @ 4,800-5,000 rpm
Torque 2 3L:
Approx. 130-135 lb-ft @ 2,600-3,000 rpm
Horsepower 3 0L V6:
Approx. 140-150 hp @ 4,800-5,000 rpm
Torque 3 0L V6:
Approx. 160-170 lb-ft @ 3,000-3,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based systems depending on specific year/application
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (RWD), 4WD
Transfer Case:
Manual or Electronic engagement for 4WD models
Wheelbase Short:
Approx. 105.9 inches
Wheelbase Long:
Approx. 114.2 inches (depending on cab and bed configuration)
Bed Lengths:
Standard Bed (approx. 6 ft), Long Bed (approx. 7 ft)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,000 - 3,700 lbs (varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 4,500-5,000 lbs (V6, properly equipped)
Payload Capacity:
Up to 1,000-1,500 lbs (varies by configuration)
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific crash test; generally competitive for its class at the time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Optional on some models, standard on later years/higher trims)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these model years.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional on some early models, standard on later ones.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for front occupants. Lap belts for rear occupants (if equipped).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Recommended with every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, typically 30,000-60,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect periodically, change fluid every 30,000-50,000 miles. Automatic: Inspect periodically, change fluid and filter every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH certified, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most conditions (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Capacity 2 3L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3 0L V6:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a green color (Dex-Cool not recommended for these years).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon V or equivalent (check manual for precise specification).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 rated gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Common Problems Engine:
Vacuum leaks, head gasket issues on some V6 models, idle control valve problems, exhaust manifold cracks (less common than later generations).
Common Problems Transmission:
Clutch wear, automatic transmission solenoid issues, manual gearbox synchro wear.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, power steering pump leaks, worn bushings.
Common Problems Electrical:
Alternator failure, starter motor issues, corroded grounds, faulty ignition switches.
Common Problems Body:
Rust on cab corners, fender wells, and rocker panels, particularly in areas with road salt.
Mazda Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and capable small trucks globally.
Ford Heritage:
Ford Ranger is one of America's best-selling pickup trucks, known for its durability and versatility.
Platform Development:
This generation represented a significant update, sharing its core platform with Mazda's B-Series, leading to cost efficiencies and commonality.
Design Changes:
Introduced new styling, improved interior comfort, and updated powertrains compared to previous generations.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in North America (USA) and potentially other global Ford/Mazda facilities.
Production Years Generation:
1993-1997
Segment Awards:
Both the Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series were consistently recognized for their value, reliability, and capability within the compact truck segment during their production run.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally rated well for reliability and value by consumer publications of the era, though specific ratings varied by model year and powertrain.
