i have a 96 with a 2.3 that just started overheating today. i noticed the smell of anti-freeze and saw the temp gauge go up. i pulled over and my radiator and reservoir were both full but the coolant in the reservoir was boiling. i have never had this problem and i dont know what to do?

I would replace the tstat. I would only use a MOTORCRAFT. I would also replace the rad cap

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2004 Ext Cab, 4WD, 4.0, Auto, 154k. (4.0 engine is out of a 2009 Ranger w/96k) ( as of 7/1/2017)

2004 Ranger, Ext Cab, 2WD, 3.0, 5 speed , 4WABS, crank windows, no cruise, Edge 116k.(6/5,2014) (SOLD).
1999 Ford Ranger, Reg Cab, 2.5, 5 speed, 2WD, no AC, 150k (SOLD).

^^^^ x2

I had the same problem on my 02 2.3L. Changed the tstat but continued to overheat, checked the water pump and it was good, changed the radiator and cleared up the problem. The radiator was clogged in all but 5 flues.

Your 02 2.3 is a different engine (the DOHC) engine than his older 2.3

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Looking for a professional retrofitter to add HIDs or LEDs to your Ranger? PM me if your looking to have work done, and have cash to spend.

Change Tstat, radiator cap, check hoses and replace the antifreeze. If still not fixed move to water pump and radiator....and yes I have on 03 4.0l Ranger but the cooling system work off the same principle.

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(SOLD) 2003 Ranger 4.0L V6 FX4
2001 F150 Supercrew Triton V8 (DD)
2008 Fusion 3.0L SEL V6 (my baby)
1992 Taurus SHO MTX (my toy-almost Supercharged)
2004 Nissan Murano SL AWD (Wife's car)