"Vincent" the 2003 FX4 LII, Dual Sticks, 4.0 SOHC - Build Thread - Page 2

RayZorback · #16 09-29-2015, 01:09 PM

I am gathering as many resources as possible for the vehicle. If found this online and wondered if anyone could verify if it was indeed the actual owners manual for my truck?

I am also looking for a complete service manual if there is one.

Logan03CO · #17 09-29-2015, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RayZorback

If found this online and wondered if anyone could verify if it was indeed the actual owners manual for my truck?

Looks like it - but here are a couple places to verify:

Direct from this site: Ford Ranger Owners Manuals

Direct from Ford Fleet (Will be the latest printing): Owner Manuals

----------

Quote:

Originally Posted by RayZorback

I am also looking for a complete service manual if there is one.

For paper versions, check eBay if you don't want to buy new from the Helm Corporation.

Here is a random one that is up on eBay right now: http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/1618267...chn=ps&lpid=82

Here is what they look like for reference (the workshop manual is like 3.5" thick):

RayZorback · #18 09-30-2015, 12:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Logan03CO

Looks like it - but here are a couple places to verify: Direct from this site: Ford Ranger Owners Manuals Direct from Ford Fleet (Will be the latest printing): Owner Manuals ---------- For paper versions, check eBay if you don't want to buy new from the Helm Corporation. Here is a random one that is up on eBay right now: http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/1618267...chn=ps&lpid=82 Here is what they look like for reference (the workshop manual is like 3.5" thick):

Super helpful! Thank you!

tredeh · #19 09-30-2015, 07:36 AM

Nice-looking truck. Subbed

RayZorback · #20 09-30-2015, 09:57 AM

Interior Photos

Taken September 29, 2013
I removed my console when the bottom of the armrest split in half and the thing would not stay put. I had originally just removed the armrest and was going to replace that part, but I figured it would just break again and I wasn't crazy about the set up. The plan now is to get some type of "Ram Mount" set up to attached various electronics and switches.
It looks about the same currently... but a little dirtier. Ha.

RayZorback · #21 10-01-2015, 04:10 PM

Vincent has new kicks!

One of the first things I wanted to do was purchase new tires. I was once fearful of stoplights, on a hill, in the rain!

Tires
BFGoodrich LT285/75R16E, All-Terrain T/A KO2

Technical Details

Tire Size: LT285/75R16
Sidewall: Raised White Letters
Overall Diameter: 32.8
Max Load: 3750
Load Range: E
Speed Rating: R = 106 mph
Rim Range: 7.5 - 9
Tread Depth: 15/32
Tire Weight: 59.1

Wheels
ProComp 7031 Series Alloy Wheels with black locking bolts

Details

Wheel Size: 16x8
Bolt Pattern: 5 on 4.5
Backspace: 4.5
Finish: Flat Black

Because I was able to get a great deal on the tires, I picked up a 5th full size tire to rotate in as a spare. This should prolong the life of the tires. The spare will live on the roof of the car eventually.

After installing the tires, I noticed a slight "rub" coming from the front when I turned sharp and slow. My truck seems to have a TBar lift on it, not a body kit. After circling a parking lot a few times, I determined that it was due to the mudflap on the front. Removing those is next on the list.

RayZorback · #22 10-01-2015, 06:41 PM

It's pretty easy for most "car guys", but I removed the mudflap and thought I would post some photos incase someone else was searching for it. The mudflap is attached to a metal bracket support that is attached to the frame of the truck. These started to unscrew and then broke off due to the rust on my truck. I used an 8mm socket.

The second place the mudflap is attached is behind the plastic flare with what I think is called a "christmas tree screw"? I could be wrong about that but it is the kind of screw that goes in easy, but is hard to pull out. It is also plastic. Tugging, wiggling, and using a flat head screw driver to get some leverage snapped it right out.

(see the previous post for the before photos)

Attached to truck at top right of photo.

"Christmas Tree Screw"? is the one on the left side that was behind the plastic flare.

After

I like it. The rubbing stopped except for a very specific angle, at slow speed, in the front driver side. There is a small part of the bumper that hooks back under the truck that will occasionally hit it. It does not happen on the passenger side. It is rare and "OK" for now. On my list of improvements is a black front bumper that works with existing tow hooks. Changing the bumper will probably correct the issue.

Erock482 · #23 10-02-2015, 10:18 PM

Out of curiosity, where did you get your tires and rims? Local shop or ordered online? and now with the 285's whats the measurement from the ground to the top of the rear fenderwell?

RayZorback · #24 10-03-2015, 04:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Erock482

Out of curiosity, where did you get your tires and rims? Local shop or ordered online? and now with the 285's whats the measurement from the ground to the top of the rear fenderwell?

Bought them from 4wd.com on sale but I also called them and got a better deal than online.

Driver front / rear: 37.25 / 37.75
Passenger front / rear: 36.5 / 37.25

I park on a slant which is why I think the driver side is ½" higher at the moment.

2004 fx4 level II · #25 10-03-2015, 04:42 PM

love them rims and u should paint ur flares!

RayZorback · #26 10-03-2015, 04:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 2004 fx4 level II

love them rims and u should paint ur flares!

yea, I will if I don't change them. I'm just researching at the moment. When I have the exterior like I want, I'll get the entire truck painted.

vista4.0 · #27 10-03-2015, 06:55 PM

Tires look good man. I think the KO2 might be my next tire.

RayZorback · #28 10-06-2015, 06:49 PM

In the parking lot of the tool store, I started to load the Craftsman mechanic's tool set into the back of my truck. Ironically, the handle broke and the tailgate wouldn't open. Ha.

So the first fix I got to do with my brand new tools was to replace the tailgate handle. I used a Doorman brand from the local AutoZone.
I wasn't sure how to get the handle off or get into the assembly so I Googled and found the step by step how to video below. It's great and shows you exactly what to do, step by step. In comments, some suggested not using the WD40 that he uses but a real "grease" instead. Just a tip I picked up. Take a look at the video below and the photos from my repair.

The old handle

I have never seen a range of years stated this way... "2006-01". Hm.

I'm warming up to the hard stuff ... just hang in there...

Schnider · #29 10-06-2015, 07:20 PM

Nice ranger man! I'm semi jealous of your twin sticks! Love how your detailing everything for future ranger owners that may have the same questions/problems you have. Subbed!

bumstead27 · #30 10-06-2015, 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schnider

Nice ranger man! I'm semi jealous of your twin sticks! Love how your detailing everything for future ranger owners that may have the same questions/problems you have. Subbed!

Only semi jealous??