Beschreibung
What a rare beast this is! The subject of considerable recent investment and recommissioning, this stunning all-American Ranger is one of just a handful here in the UK and comes with comprehensive service and maintenance history going back to 2004. Offering optional 2 or 4-wheel drive, a 4. 0 litre Ford Cologne engine up front mated to heavy-duty 5-speed manual transmission and SuperCab accommodation with fold-down jump seats for rear passengers, this is the real deal. Practical, powerful and undeniably a show-stopper, the truck offers terrific value for money and is ready to go. I don`t expect it will be with me for long.
A close competitor of the Chevrolet S-10, the Ranger was introduced by Ford in 1982 and instantly became a hit outselling it`s rival for more than the next 20 years. Initially, three different wheelbases were offered with a variety of engines ranging from a base-model 2. 0 litre inline 4-cylinder up to the most powerful, a 4. 0 litre V6 offering 160BHP. Five trim levels added to the typical long list of Ford options and these were subsequently carried over to the Second Generation that arrived in 1993 albeit in other ways, it was an altogether different machine. A complete redesign saw aerodynamic body styling with 4-wheel drive now an option with manually operated transfer case, better braking systems and a choice of V6 petrol engines. Top of the line was still the 4. 0 litre Cologne which remained in full tune until 1995. With echoes of the past, Ford reintroduced a Flareside option on the short-bed trucks providing a step to either flank enabling easy access to the rear load area. Trim levels were revised during production with the top specification STX model now featuring cloth trim, power steering, an upgraded stereo and tachometer.
Our truck dates from September 1993 but has a declared manufacture date of 1994 being sold new by Huston Motors, Lake Wales in Florida. It is an example of the top specification available at the time with biggest engine choice and optional Flareside body. A rare and desirable truck when new. It would appear that the truck remained in Florida for just 4 years before being imported into the UK and registered here in January 1998. Early history suggests that it was residing in Nottinghamshire soon after importation and bills from 2003 onwards document a replacement power steering box, full service, replacement air-conditioning condenser, brake parts and tyres. Mileage at this point is documented at 91, 000. In 2007, the truck was sold to a gentleman on the Isle of Wight where it was to remain for the next 6 years. Receipts and invoices from this period reflect regular maintenance with notable highlights to include a replacement radiator and thermostat in 2009. In June 2013, it moved back to the mainland being sold to an enthusiast in Shaftesbury, Dorset who ultimately retained it for the next 10 years. During his ownership, the truck saw significant investment with work to include a new windscreen, new all-terrain tyres, full brake overhaul, rocker cover gaskets, paintwork, light replacements and full servicing. Most of this work was undertaken prior to late 2015 when the truck, for some unknown reason, was put into storage not to see the road again until Summer 2023. Looking somewhat neglected, the vehicle was acquired by a local 4-wheel-drive specialist who subsequently undertook a rolling programme of refurbishment to get the truck up to MoT standard and beyond. Such work included replacing window regulators, fitting a new heater matrix and a complete brake overhaul. We purchased it just before Christmas since when we have continued to improve it with detail paintwork and a full machine polish.
The truck appears just as in the photographs. Other than a few minor age-related blemishes, the body and Gloss Black paintwork are absolutely stunning. Optional Ford alloys are in excellent condition and shod with almost new 235/ 75/ 15 Nexen Roadian AT tyres whilst front and recently painted rear cab visors complete the backdated look provided by the Flareside bed. The cabin is also in great shape with Grey cloth trim and matching carpets, with the SuperCab offering additional storage and of course, those fold-out jump seats with seatbelts. Turn the key and the ever-reliable Cologne V6 barks into life sounding very purposeful through the side exit exhaust system. On the road, the truck feels everything one would hope for and expect. Smooth and effortless performance combined with a relatively high-ratio heavy duty 5-speed gearbox offers tremendous long-distance touring capabilities. Light but positive steering and a firm but very comfortable ride encourages spirited driving and urges the driver to push on whatever the road conditions. I have been enjoying the truck immensely this weekend and it certainly turns heads wherever you go. As American trucks stand, this isn`t overly large and could be easily used on a day-to day basis. Conversely, it would make a splendid weekend toy and certainly it would draw a crowd at any show. My experience of just pulling onto a petrol forecourt confirmed this yesterday! Come and fight me for the keys.
The truck comes with almost 20 years of bills and receipts documenting expenditure since 2004, old Registration Documents and a current V5C, lots of old MoT Certificates and a current one to December 2024, original Ford Maintenance Schedule and Owners Guide and a JVC Stereo Guide.
A rare and desirable American pickup ready to work or play. What`s not to like!
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
Deposit now taken.
