James 302

Hey guys I just bought a 1997 Ranger XLT with the 3.0 v6, automatic, 2wd, stepside bed, for $400. It is in pretty good condition. The only problem is a head gasket is totally blown, so they have to be replaced. The truck has 187000 miles, so of course it has some wear in the interior and stuff, like normal, but it has not been abused at all, in fact i think it might have been babied. The guy owned it since new and took it to the dealership for all of its routine maintenance and I have checked everywhere for rust and none is in sight anywhere , so i know im good there. Just wondering if yall think it would be smart to get it fixed. If i fix it, i plan on it being my daily driver for a while. Thanks in advance for your input.

kozal01

iTrader: (2)

for what you have into it hell yeah it would be worth it. the 3.slow isnt the greatest for power or mileage but there are a very solid motor and will last for many miles if taken care of. id fix it and drive it.

PJB

Swapping in a lower mileage motor might be cheaper than getting the headgaskets replaced.

SultanGris

Just be sure the block isnt also cracked before you put money into head gaskets. Tires and battery are usually worth 400$, good find.

SchuLace

I would search around for a low mile engine. Would probably be a little more but it will last alot longer than putting new gaskets on the original.

fordmedic48

Good Find, I would go with a used motor.

ANT2010KR

I'd just clean it up and sell it again, you should be able to double/triple your money, someone would want a truck like that as a small project.

bluescrew

It's probably worth more than 400 in scrap, especially if it has aluminum wheels, cats, and radiator in tact.

I'd say it was a good find and will make a nice project.