Cape Cruiser
Well-Known Member
- First Name
- Bret
- Joined
- Mar 18, 2019
- Threads
- 18
- Messages
- 1,077
- Reaction score
- 2,959
- Location
- Southern Delaware
- Vehicle(s)
- 31 Ford-20 Ranger Lariat FX4- 19 Ranger Lariat 4x2
- Occupation
- retired mechanic
- Thread starter
- #1
1980 Ranger huh? In 1980 I was looking for a mini 4wd pickup and I didnt like the options out there so I created my own. After I purchased a new 1980 Ford Courier (Mazda with 2.3 liter) I drove it about 1000 miles and proceeded to rip into it. I custom ordered a aluminum center section front rear and new Jeep springs and transfer case front limited slip and rear locker. With help from a friend we completed the build in 6 weeks with great results. Had to finish quickly cause I was working full time and my only other transportation was a motorcycle and it was a cold December! drove the truck for 4 years and due to New Jersey's tough new inspection rules I couldnt pass state inspection even though I passed an independent engineers testing. The main reason for failure is they go by a stock vehicle height and you where allowed 4 inches over stock height. I was 17 inches over stock 2wd Courier with 33 inch tires!! I started out with 35 inch tires that where a bit too much. The Rangers where being built so I traded in on 1984 Ranger 4x4 with rear locker and front limited slip.
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