Model:
Drifter / B-Series
Aliases:
Mazda Ranger (International Markets, post-1998)
Vehicle Type:
Light Commercial Vehicle / Pickup Truck
Chassis Codes:
B-Series (general), specific codes vary by generation and market (e.g., UC, UF, UN, UM)
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly by providing step-by-step repair instructions.
Competitor Manuals:
Provides a level of detail comparable to manufacturer service manuals, offering a cost-effective alternative.
Instruction Format:
Numbered step-by-step instructions, detailed substeps, bold figure numbers for easy illustration matching.
Safety Information:
Cautions and warnings are pinpointed throughout each chapter.
Organization:
Numbered table of contents for quick and easy information retrieval.
Delivery:
Instant digital download upon payment, no shipping fees or waiting.
Geographic Markets:
International (excluding North America, where a badge-engineered Ford Ranger was sold)
Estimated Pages Volume 1:
Varies significantly based on specific generation/updates, but typically hundreds of pages.
Estimated Pages Volume 2:
Varies significantly based on specific generation/updates, but typically hundreds of pages.
Estimated Pages Volume 3:
Varies significantly based on specific generation/updates, but typically hundreds of pages.
Estimated Pages Volume 4:
Varies significantly based on specific generation/updates, but typically hundreds of pages.
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
File Format:
Adobe Acrobat Document (.pdf), WinRAR archive (.rar)
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Powertrain Engine:
G6, F8, WL, WL Turbo, F2 (including F2 CIS, F2 CARB)
Powertrain Transmission:
Manual Transmissions: M15M-D, M15MX-D, R15M-D, R15MX-D; Transfer Case
Chassis Drivetrain:
Clutch, Propeller Shaft, Front and Rear Axles
Chassis Steering:
Steering System
Chassis Suspension:
Suspension (Front and Rear)
Chassis Brakes:
Braking System
Body Exterior:
Body Construction and Panels
Body Interior:
Interior Trim and Components
Electrical Powertrain:
Engine Electrical System (Ignition, Starting, Charging)
Electrical Chassis:
Chassis Electrical Systems
Electrical Body:
Body Electrical Systems (Lighting, Wipers, Power Accessories)
HVAC:
Heater and Air Conditioner Systems
Fuel Emissions:
Fuel and Emission Control Systems (G6, WL/WL Turbo, F2 CARB)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and repair for all covered systems
Adjustment:
System adjustments (e.g., clutch, brakes, engine timing)
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed Electrical Wiring Schematics (LHD and RHD variations, engine, chassis, body, HVAC, accessories)
Depth:
Comprehensive - Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Covers complete disassembly and reassembly.
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of photos, illustrations, and detailed drawings.
Special Tools:
Includes lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific procedures.
Engines Covered:
G6 (likely 2.5L SOHC/DOHC), F8 (likely 1.8L SOHC), WL (likely 2.5L Diesel), WL Turbo (likely 2.5L Turbo Diesel), F2 (likely 2.0L SOHC/DOHC)
Specific Performance Data:
Horsepower, torque, and specific performance figures vary significantly by engine and generation, detailed within the manual.
Fuel Systems:
Carbureted (F2), Fuel Injection (CIS on F2), Diesel Injection (WL, WL Turbo)
Lubrication System:
Detailed procedures for the lubrication system, including oil type and capacity recommendations.
Cooling System:
Detailed procedures for the cooling system, including coolant type and capacity recommendations.
Manual Transmissions:
M15M-D, M15MX-D, R15M-D, R15MX-D
Transmission Options:
While the manual primarily covers manual transmissions, earlier or different market variants may have had automatic options. Coverage for those would depend on the specific generation.
Transfer Case:
Covered as part of the drivetrain system, essential for 4x4 variants.
Dimensions Variability:
Exterior dimensions (length, width, height, wheelbase) vary significantly by generation, cab configuration (single, extended, double), and bed length. Specific figures are found in the manual's Technical Data section.
Weight Specifications:
Curb weight, GVWR, payload capacity vary by model and configuration. Detailed in the Technical Data section.
Bed Dimensions:
Bed lengths and volumes differ across B-Series/Drifter models and are detailed in the manual.
Safety Ratings:
Crash test ratings and safety certifications vary by market and production year. The manual provides information on safety systems but not external rating reports.
Active Safety:
Coverage on ABS (if equipped), braking system components, and steering assist systems.
Passive Safety:
Information on seat belts, airbag systems (if equipped), and body structural integrity from a repair perspective.
Infotainment Features:
Basic infotainment systems of the era (radio, cassette player). The manual covers the electrical systems related to these components.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Limited driver assistance features for the period. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Manual covers data link connector (DLC) for diagnostics.
General Intervals:
The manual provides detailed recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, and major component inspections. Specific intervals are engine and model dependent.
Engine Oil:
Specific API classifications and viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 10W-30, 15W-40) for each engine variant are detailed.
Coolant:
Recommendations for coolant type (e.g., ethylene glycol-based) and capacity are provided.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) specifications and capacities.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid specifications.
Differential Fluid:
Specifications for front and rear axle/differential lubricants.
Common Wear Items:
The manual's diagnostic sections implicitly cover common wear items and potential issues for the systems described. For example, clutch wear, suspension bushing wear, and brake component wear are typical for trucks of this era.
Oil Filter:
While the manual doesn't list part numbers directly, it details the oil filter specifications needed for replacement.
Mazda Heritage:
Mazda's long history in producing reliable and practical light commercial vehicles.
B Series Evolution:
The B-Series platform has seen numerous generations and updates since its inception in the 1960s, evolving from basic utilitarian trucks to more refined vehicles.
Production Origins:
Japanese-built, badge-engineered for international markets, including the rebadging as 'Ranger' in some regions from 1998.
Vehicle Awards:
Specific awards for the Mazda Drifter/B-Series vary by market and year; however, the platform is generally recognized for its durability and value in the light truck segment.
Reliability Ratings:
While specific ratings aren't in the manual, the B-Series platform is known for its robust construction, contributing to its reputation for reliability.
Manual Certification:
The manual is presented as an aid to improve repair quality and accuracy, adhering to service workshop standards.