Opinions: What should I do to my truck?

WildlandFirefighter · #1 12-20-2010, 06:50 PM

Bought this 1985 Ford Ranger 4x4 for $1000. It came with a V6 but had a 2.3L FI swapped in it. It also has a 5 spd manual transmission. It still has a limited slip 3.73 rear axle in it.

I got it because I travel alot to work (gas mileage) and I needed a 4x4.
I was thinking of a lift and some 31s and a winch but...

I just need some ideas what I need to do to it. Any will be appreciated. Good or bad.

So far what I have done to it:
Installed new timing belt
Installed CD player
Installed CB
Installed new spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, and distributor rotor
Installed a custom headliner

What needs to be fixed that I know of right now:
Needs heater core
Needs frontend alignment
Needs new tires
Needs new brake master cylinder
Needs new gaskets in gear box
Needs new 4x4 locks
Needs some new floorboards welded in
Needs door panels

ANY OPINIONS?

Thanks

Clinton · #2 12-20-2010, 06:56 PM

I would take care of the floor boards first, and the essential stuff of course. Then mod it after you know it is at close to 100%. You dont want to put money into mods then the motor or something major goes on it

jacobxstanley · #3 12-20-2010, 06:57 PM

if you BL and put 31's on it, i think youll have to regear it to atleast 4.10

WildlandFirefighter · #4 12-20-2010, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Clinton

I would take care of the floor boards first, and the essential stuff of course. Then mod it after you know it is at close to 100%. You dont want to put money into mods then the motor or something major goes on it

Well I am going to get it all fixed that I have stated but I am wondering about mods and stuff...

Motor may have to have some seals put in the valves cause it smokes when you first crank it up. Nothing to major.

----------

Quote:

Originally Posted by jacobxstanley

if you BL and put 31's on it, i think youll have to regear it to atleast 4.10

I'm staying away from body lifts....
I want to at least keep 20mpg (if possible) with a small lift and 31s with 4.10s

azgilamonster · #5 12-20-2010, 07:03 PM

if you bl and go bigger tires there goes the gas savings

WildlandFirefighter · #6 12-20-2010, 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by azgilamonster

if you bl and go bigger tires there goes the gas savings

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. I think it has 29s on it...

What I don't get is how these newer Rangers have bigger tires and they get good gas mileage even in a 4x4....

Must be better heads or something....