Wanted to find out from you ford folks about the 86 Ranger 4x4 . not going to use it for offroading really but just to bring my streetbike and dirtbike to the track as well as a commuter. The car is ultra clean 5 speed and already lifted. 107K. Was wondering if I should just keep my VW Jetta which is super reliable for commute and buy a trailer for my Range Rover for the bikes.. input please.. thanks Paul .. email siambxr@hotmail.com

if youv'e already got a range rover and a VW, and you wouldn't plan on wheelin the Ranger, I"d suggest not gettin it, just basically b/c you've already got a commuter, and you've already got a RR that will tow fine, that is, unless both of these vehicles, are old and worn, and gettin non-reliable on everyday trips. and if that's the case, I would also suggest gettin something newesr than an 86, b/c more than likely the truck will have a good amount of miles on it. hope this helps ya a bit.

--Ryan

If you are wondering about the reliability of the 2.9 EFI motor it is great. The only issues it has is the valve covers tend to leak often and the oil pump tends to drop alot of pressure after 200k or so. I see the one you are looking at has 107k. with that few miles the thing should be great for another 107k. I know many people with over 300k on their 2.9s. I have one with 217k that still runs like a top and passes cal emissions with flying colors. Its too bad you dont want to 4by it cause they are beasts if you get decent gearing and a lockrite in them. The mitsubishi 5spd is not as strong as the post 88 mazda M5ODR1 that came in rangers and explorers, but it will probably work fine for what you want to do.