Need advice on picking a new ranger.

[tdelafield]

My current ranger is a 2001 2.3 standard with 230,000 miles! Im begining to have motor issues and im currently searching for new ones.

Now the question.. Im going to put bf goodrich all terrain t/a biggest size i can get without having to put a lift kit etc.. im also going to be putting a dirt bike in and out of the back probably 3 times a week taking it to the local track. With the problems im having now would a 2007 4cyl automatic hold up to this kind of weight?? Or should i just go with the 3.0 im just looking for good fuel economy if i ever decide to go out of state with my bike to race.

I'd just like some advice before i get into a 1 year car loan and tear up a transmission or put wear on my engine that could be prevented.

[djfllmn]

if your gonna put bigger tires on it/haul stuff id stay away from the 2.3...i would give the 4.0 some serious thought...the 4.0 gets about the same MPGs as the 3.0

[Rg1Baja]

3.0 or what he said /\

[tdelafield]

Thanks for the help. I would love to get a 4.0 but havent seen any in my area. Im looking at a 3.0 regular cab.

[djfllmn]

then broaden your search to an extended cab...youll love the extra room trust me

[2004xlmiller]

then broaden your search to an extended cab...youll love the extra room trust me

x2, i have an ext cab, almost bought a single, but when i got mine i was glad i had the extra room. and the 3.0 is a good motor.

[djfllmn]

and the 3.0 is a good motor.

just gutless lol

[2004xlmiller]

haha, i know it can be a lil slow, but its never let me down and im pleased. but if id found my truck with thee 4.0 SOHC it woulda been better.

[tdelafield]

I have a ext cab now and all that ends up back there is junk haha ill have to see how it all goes when im looking in a couple weeks. 2006 and 2007s seem more in my price range. whats the gas mileage difference between the 3.0 and 4?

[2004xlmiller]

fairly similar, but the 3.0 is smaller and does a lil better.

[djfllmn]

fairly similar, but the 3.0 is smaller and does a lil better.

i beg to differ at least with the 4wd rangers...i get the same mileage with my 4.0 as my buddy did with his 3.0 4wd ranger

[bjurke]

if you are pulling more than 1500lbs you need the auto with the 4cyl. also you will probably get the same gas mileage with the 6cyl. some people have had mechanical problems with the 3 litre(weak head design) the 4 litre is stronger design

[hillbilbilly4x4]

i have a 3 and it has enough power to pull atleast a lil over 2000 pounds and my friend has a 4cyl and he hates it no power for pullin