98 Ranger

[CNGROOKIE]

Guys,
First post but I need answers in a hurry. Have the chance to bid on seven 98 Rangers bifuel tomorrow 10am. They're gas co. trucks and cng hasn't been used for 5 years....they're compressor broke and they never fixed it. Talked to the fleet mechanic so I at least have a little inside info. He says they were a little disappointed in the performance when they were new. I've never seen a Ranger on ebay or anywhere else. Same GFI system as big Fords??? Cost to replace Compuvalve??? Should I pass on Fords??? Trucks have between 75k and 91k. What should I pay for fleet vehicles like this? I'm not proud...HELP!!!
Ed...........

[jetboatjohnny]

Re: 98 Ranger

I'd go to KBB.com and see what the going price in your area is, the bi-fuels may not be listed but it will give you an idea.
Do you know if they are 4cyl or 6 cyl?
I had an 85 Ranger and it was the most reliable vehicle I had owned until I got my Honda. The only problem I had was I blew out 2 5 speed manual trannys (Japanese made) from towing my jetskis, a 14' outboard, and a smaill 12' travel trailer. I put about 300,000 miles on it and the 4 cyl still ran good and didn't use any oil.
At least if the CNG wont work it will still run on gasoline, and they get decent mileage. If you get it at a good price you could still sell it with no loss, it's not like trying to unload big V8 SUV or truck.

[CNGROOKIE]

Re: 98 Ranger

Thanks,
Did the KBB before I posted and have that info. There seems to be a HUGE discrepency between "regular" vehicles and CNG of the same model. Last week $5,000 F150's WITH HAIL DAMAGE but bifuel went for $15,000 at GSA auctions in Illinois and Tenn. Seems there is panic buying at this point. I've had three Rangers that I used loaded to the gills with tools. 4cyl. couldn't make 60mph in a headwind. 4.0 is my favorite with 245,000 miles but gets 14mpg. Bought a 99 4wd 3.0 at the last auction like this and I get 12.5mpg. Runs fantastic but.......need to dump it fast. Family matters have come up fast and I may not make the auction. I'll post if I score.
Ed..............

[Timon]

Re: 98 Ranger

I wish my Ranger was converted to CNG. Since there is a CNG ranger does anyone know if there was a conversion kit, legal of course, ever done for them?

[CNGROOKIE]

Re: 98 Ranger

Just back from the auction. I was shut out by two guys...one from Oklahoma and one from Utah. 98 Rangers w/95k went for close to four grand, some more than that. These were not pristine trucks either. KBB would say Fair condition. I Guess they're worth much more there than here in Indy. Guess I'ss keep looking.
Ed...........

[2349]

Re: 98 Ranger

I've owned 4 different CNG vehicles. I had to repair the GFI system twice in my '98 Ranger. After that I gave it to my nephew who repaired it once more. I also had a '00 Contour with a GFI system that I repaired once and then sold. I have had very little trouble with my '95 Caravan and absolutely none with my '01 Cavalier.