pics from the weekend
ranger2.jpg - Image - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/?action=view&current=ranger2.jpg)
ranger3.jpg - Image - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/?action=view&current=ranger3.jpg)
ranger4.jpg - Image - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/?action=view&current=ranger4.jpg)
ranger.jpg - Image - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/?action=view&current=ranger.jpg)

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Good pics Rogie, they finally worked! That mud looks like HEAPS of fun! :thumb:

yeah it was fun had a few hairy moments though,lol,ranger is brand new still running it in but im very happy with it goes like a cut snake

Good Looking Ranger Mate.

no worries mate glad you like it,goes better than it looks too :) have ARB bullbar and canopy on order so will post some more pics when they are put on in a few weeks time

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/ranger6.jpg?t=1185793810

Great picks, looks great. Still waiting for mine to turn up at the dealer. Are you happy with the way it handles off road? What did you have before the Ranger?

yes i am very happy with it off road,it will go anywhere i want to go with it,i had the courier before had it new for 8 years and never put a spanner on it,i still have it too gave it to my dad,you will love the ranger im very sure,im getting cruise control as i wont have a liscence long otherwise,its also very good on fuel and very quiet to drive

Good to hear, i'm drivin a triton now and i have to say i've been very happy with it. The clearance is good and so is the wheel travel for an IFS one tonner. I'm swithching from petrol to diesel so this will be different.

Have you had occasion to test the low range on down hill?

I'm hoping it will be better than the triton as it does get away a bit on steep decents. Cant work out the over all ratio in Low 1 as they don't spec the diff ratio. If the BT50 spec is right (don't know if it is as they got the transfer ratio wrong) then the over all ratio is not as low as the triton so i'm hoping the 18:1 comp' will make the difference.

yeah i did a bit of downhill stuff and it seems to be low enough gearing for me,maybe being diesel may make a diff too,i dont think you will be disapointed going to the diesel it doesnt have any turbo lag realy compared to the courier,what model have you got the XLT?

Yeh XLT Titanium grey, tow bar, soft tonneu and BFG AT's.

Not sure if i should have gone the BFG AT's or left the bridgys on and got a second set of wheels and some muddies. How are the Bridgestone AT's?

90% of the 4wding we do here is sand so the tyres are fine,have you got bigger tyres? just asking as the engine only does 2200 revs at 110ks,hr i thought about bigger tyres and it might maybe the car lug a bit in top gear,after 4wding on the weekend it has enough clearance for what i do so ill stick wih the standard ones and keep the speedo correct too,whan did you say you get yours?

I've stayed with the same size tyres, but i'd like to go with the 245/75R16(but these ar'nt available in the BFG AT's) as they add about an inch. I hope to get mine with in the next 2 weeks.

may i ask why you went for the ranger?

Needed to upgrade to something a little more comfortable with some nice stuff like power windows and remote keyless entry power mirrors as i spend a lot of time on the road. Want to stick with a duel CAB as i can take the family but i still have a ute. Love a UTE!!!

Don't like the shape of the new triton, Hilux too $$$ Navara looks to have poor clearance etc.

Ranger and BT50 are good value have good clearance approach ramp over and departure angles and engines have plenty of poke. I drove both and liked both but I think the Ranger looks best and has the best extras. Tub liner wit 12v power, is a top idea, the SS bars side steps and bumper look tops and seam to be functional. The tow bar standard except for tongue and wiring makes it cost effective. The only thing i'd like to see is a lower low range, but i reckon it will be as good as my triton or better being a diesel with 18:1 compression and the triton has been good enough.

To me its a great package, and i cant wait to get my ass in the drivers seat. What you've said about yours makes me even moor confident i've picked he right vehicle.

How about you Rogie?

i had the old courier model and it was an excelent veichle for the time i had it,the new ranger is a lot better still and more than a match for the other utes im very happy with mine

Arb bar and canopy will look great on it. Then one day you will have to save up for the side rail protectors and side steps.

have the smooth canopy on order it has to be painted,bull bar is a few weeks away too as big back order for them,dont think i will get the side bars and steps,i have ordered the STEINBAUER power module as well to be fitted next week maybe if it arrives

The stainless side steps should offer better protection then the aluminiun ones on other models anyway.

yeah i see how they go maybe get some later got heaps of other stuff to get first

so i take it you both give the ranger the thumbs up.. im speccing up an extra cab for one of my site supervisors.. the falcon ute is getting expensive to maintain properly now its outside of warranty

yeah i see how they go maybe get some later got heaps of other stuff to get first

I haven't got mine yet but from the t3est drives and all the reviews i think its the pick of the bunch.

I am picking mine up in a week or so hopefully. I drove them all and for the money the Ranger seemed the best value. The Hilux was nearly $13000 (rrp) more than the Ranger, and they are not keen to budge on price AT ALL.

I was tossing up between the BT-50 and the Ranger and for basically the same vehicle the Ranger came in cheaper by about $2000, this is for an XL Supercab.

If you are talking Ranger XLT vs BT-50 SDX then I think the Mazda is better value at $39000 compared to $43000ish for the Ford.

But a Ranger XL + Safety Pack comes with more than a Mazda DX+ (safety pack added). The DX+ comes with sport trim & power accessories but no ABS, thats an additional expense.

Shop around and tell them what you want and how much you are prepared to spend, it also helps if you can speak directly with the Fleet sales manager.

But yeah thumbs up for the Ranger :thumb:

Mimmo

Hi guys, there are a couple of things I don't like about the BT50 and Ranger and I wish Ford \ Mazda would get their acts together. Firstly I don't like the big chunky front bars both bull bars and bumpers (same goes for the lux, tritons and Navvies) The Tritons have a factory body lift and sport 265\70\16 along wth Navara but Ford \ Mazda still haven't raised the body and with Mazda have gone backwards I think in the wheel department (early models had R205\16) with 235\75\16. I run 265\70\15 AT's for just about all my blactop work (this size was optional before the BT50) while my MT MTZ's are 31\10.5\15.

Ford \ Mazda really in my mind should keep up with Mitsubish and the others by raising the body 2" and fitting the 265\75\16 wheels which would bring the BT50 \ Ranger into line with the others.

As for engine braking ..... the diesel has a much heavier flywheel than the petrol engines thus much superior down hill engine braking. The light flywheels were introduced for better fuel economy but as is mentioned in an earlier thread the car seems to run away a bit down hill.

I dont know where your coming from here. I don't think any of the utes in this class are running 265/75/16. this is what you get on Patrol or Landcruiser. The Ranger XLT is running 245/70/16 (basically the same size as 30x10.5)and everyone is running near enough the same Diameter. If any one is the odd one out it would be Toyota with 255/70/15 on the $$$ Hilux SR5. I like the look of the Ranger but if you fit a Bull Bar the bumpers gone anyway. I certainly wouldn't go with the OE bar though.

As for the body height i think the Ranger/ BT50 are as good as any on body clearance and they're way ahead of Navara. In my opinion ther're better than the Lux too.

As for the engine braking i think the 18:1 compression ration has more to do with diesel being better than the petrol rather than the fly wheel. in fact you coould argue that the heavier fly wheel will make it harder to slow the engine down.

so i take it you both give the ranger the thumbs up.. im speccing up an extra cab for one of my site supervisors.. the falcon ute is getting expensive to maintain properly now its outside of warranty

Tritor - why did'nt ya get him into something with diamonds on the grille mate.....??!!:) Having driven the Ranger, I find it really high geared in low ratio...........

But, my 10c of opinion - Hilux is now waaaaaaaaaaaaay over -rated, & extremely over-priced for what it is. Compared to the opposition models, its a low spec ute, at a premium price, & yes - that also applies to SR5 spec.

Interestingly, I have a mate that recently sold his 06 Xtra-cab Hilux, to get a new GLX Triton - both on & off road, he reckons the Triton is better.......!!

Cheers.

[quote=High Country;535664]Tritor - why did'nt ya get him into something with diamonds on the grille mate.....??!!:) Having driven the Ranger, I find it really high geared in low ratio...........

Have to say that this was my only concern. I'll let you know when i get mine if it is a problem or not.

i have had the STEINBAUER power module fitted and i went for a 2000km 5 day trip through the south west and up to perth,im very impressed with this unit it sure has provided more power with out the loss of fuel consumption i did 643 ks useing 59 lts of fuel traveling at a steady 110 km/hr,but i got to get cruise control as its just too easy to speed,you can now sit on 140km,h and still accelerate away quite quickly to 160,have taken a few of mates for a drive and they are very impresed

power module
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/powermodule.jpg?t=1186970546

compressor
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/compressor.jpg?t=1186970605

Rogie, the Steinbauer sounds good, not but fuel consumption at those speeds, just under 11Km/Ltr. How much do these things cost? Did they Dyno it?

I wonder what could be done to the old 01 bravo if anything

cost $1500 fitted cash,didnt dyno but i can tell you it sure works im very happy

Rogie, got some photos of the canapy?

i will have some pics on tuesday im at work at the moment and my car is geting the bullbar fitted and cruise control on monday check back tuesday ill have pics

Man your goin the whole hog! can't wait to see the picks

yeah bugger the budget

Who's doing your cruise control, just got a new XL through work, is it Ford o aftermarket.

local company is fitting an aus cruise

rogie

was the increase in performance that noticable with the Steinbauer?
whats the aus cruise worth?

yes it is quite noticable goes very well now i can tell you and i think the cruise is about 800 fitted

sorry i havnt replyd my comp is stuffed hope to have it back online early next week and will post pics with the new canopy and ARB bullbar

Could'nt afford the XLT so I have a new ranger XL titanium Grey on order, was supposed to get it on friday now they tell me tuesday ! Can't wait to go for a run !!!
:truck:

Hi just brought a ford ranger super cab xlt, traded in my ba xl ute so i can go off the track. never owned a 4wd before, so any tips plus any one with a ranger had anything done extra for off road use, my ranger just picked it up last week in strato blue, stock but looks a great, i looked at the toyota hilux space cab etc, but went to a ford again

rogie wicked pictures of you're ranger, i am new at the 4wd thing but if i can do stuff like that, that would be great.

G'day Rogie,
Newbie to the forum so excuse anything stupid I might (make that will likely) say or ask!

I'm just waiting on an XLT Supercab (Auto) at the moment. I'll have to drop the tub and replace with a tray for work, but I can't wait to get it.

Just got out of a 2002, bog-standard, bottom of the range, 4x2 Triton manual, so pretty much anything is a step up!

I am happy to see that the Ranger looks to go on the beach pretty well, is that right? Any niggles?

I'm in Bris, so like to get to Straddie as often as work allows. Wife, kid, dog, life is good!

Cheers
Ad

I hope you have more luck with your ranger mate as my bt50 is in at mazda on the gold coast after 3944ks. They tell me the common rail fuel system is shot ,which the went ahead and repaired and then told me it was not under warranty because it is fuel contamination and I have to part with $5,300 before I get it back. Talking to my mate from diesel aust this is a common problem with common rail systems as our diesel is too impure .

Thanks for the heads-up mate, I'll keep to the "better" brands then. I had heard that a few of the small independent fuel retailers could have some issues with diesel quality.

Just got the word from Ford, looks like I will have to wait until end of October to get my Ute. Not happy!

I hope you have more luck with your ranger mate as my bt50 is in at mazda on the gold coast after 3944ks. They tell me the common rail fuel system is shot ,which the went ahead and repaired and then told me it was not under warranty because it is fuel contamination and I have to part with $5,300 before I get it back. Talking to my mate from diesel aust this is a common problem with common rail systems as our diesel is too impure .


so what happened did you pay the money,or did you go through the insurance company. I would have told them to go and get f#%KED first as there fuel filter should have blocked anything that would have damaged the engine.

the ranger is going very well i have added the canopy and bullbar im trying to upload pics now as i have to get a new computer,have done 7000ks with no probs

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/ranger-1.jpg?t=1190284683

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/ranger2-1.jpg?t=1190284768

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I hope you have more luck with your ranger mate as my bt50 is in at mazda on the gold coast after 3944ks. They tell me the common rail fuel system is shot ,which the went ahead and repaired and then told me it was not under warranty because it is fuel contamination and I have to part with $5,300 before I get it back. Talking to my mate from diesel aust this is a common problem with common rail systems as our diesel is too impure .
Man that sux. Must be everyones nitemare when buying a new vehicle.

Nice looking turnout mate. The canopy suits it well.

I hope you have more luck with your ranger mate as my bt50 is in at mazda on the gold coast after 3944ks. They tell me the common rail fuel system is shot ,which the went ahead and repaired and then told me it was not under warranty because it is fuel contamination and I have to part with $5,300 before I get it back. Talking to my mate from diesel aust this is a common problem with common rail systems as our diesel is too impure .

So what you are saying is that Ford and Mazda have knowingly released a vehicle onto the Australian market that cannot use the fuel available locally without suffering catastrophic damage to the fuel system? If you can prove that you'll have a doozy of a class action (vehicle not fit for purpose).

I think you'll find the refinery's have been upgraded to produce fuels with a sulfer load no higher than 50ppm from 500ppm about 2 years ago. Before that time most manufacturers were not game to bring in their latest common rail engines, witness Peugeot that used the old indirect tdi's till the new fuel was introduced( europeans got the commonrails, we got 19th century technology). Does your mate believe that Mercedes Benz, Audi, BMW, Ford, VW, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Peugeot, Fiat, Citroen all have made serious errors releasing their latest engines here?

I think you simply picked up a bad batch of fuel that may have had anything in it. In the past it may well have run through an old diesels fuel system but has stuffed your fuel system because of the much tighter tollerances in the latest common rail setups. This does not mean that the diesel fuel produced by local refinery's is no good for the latest engines, it instead points to the need for greater testing by governments of the fuel in servo tanks, and possibly the need for better filtration in vehicles. Also, how do you know that older diesels weren't also being stuffed by the same load of fuel you received? The In law's 4.2 litre Patrol suffered $2500+ damage to the pump and injectors as a result of bad fuel, since then the father in law has only bought fuel from reputable places (normally the same servo) and has installed his "insurance policy" an additional much finer filter.

G'day Rogie, nice Ranger mate!

You list a GME TX3440 in your signature but I can't see an antenna fitted anywhere. Where did you mount the radio? I've got the same radio (bloody fantastic) and mounted it under the passenger seat utilizing the bolt tabs on the floor under there - I bolted a plate across the tabs and then bolted the radio mounting cradle to the plate. Connected an extension speaker (cheaper copy of the GME SPK04) and it sits in the little recess just in front of the centre drink holders... fits beautifully and the speaker points straight up to the driver and passenger. Haven't decided on a place for the LCD mic yet though. Are those Lightforce lights on your bullbar? Cheers!

The problem is more to shit in the fuel not the sulphur ,that is ok now with the vechile manufactures not using natural rubber seals. The RACQ tech section said we have the same standards as euro countries but they are not enforced yet . I am tacking it to fair trading and if so small claims, if this gets off the ground it could get ugly as it will likely involve Mazda, nissan,Toyota,Bosch,Denso and then you could count the fuel companies in too. This has pissed me off enough to go the distance for everyones sake. The jury is still out with the insurance company and then I still pay $350 excess and lose 1yr no claim . It is just not cricket

I am giving serious thought to converting it to gas

Rogie, lookin sweet with bullbar and canopy.
Did they need to move the intercooler? Looks like it would be well protected if its behind that plate, but does it still get plenty of air?

Just got the word from Ford, looks like I will have to wait until end of October to get my Ute. Not happy!

I ordered my Crew Cab XLT towards the end of June and was told i should have it by the end of July, then mid Aug then end Aug then first week in Sep then by last week and now its Monday. 13 weeks exactly asuming i do get it Monday. At least i know its at the dealer now!

yeah i have the antenna on the bullbar now and it seems to work good too
G'day Rogie, nice Ranger mate!

You list a GME TX3440 in your signature but I can't see an antenna fitted anywhere. Where did you mount the radio? I've got the same radio (bloody fantastic) and mounted it under the passenger seat utilizing the bolt tabs on the floor under there - I bolted a plate across the tabs and then bolted the radio mounting cradle to the plate. Connected an extension speaker (cheaper copy of the GME SPK04) and it sits in the little recess just in front of the centre drink holders... fits beautifully and the speaker points straight up to the driver and passenger. Haven't decided on a place for the LCD mic yet though. Are those Lightforce lights on your bullbar? Cheers!

intercooler isnt affected and seem to get plenty of airflow

Rogie, lookin sweet with bullbar and canopy.
Did they need to move the intercooler? Looks like it would be well protected if its behind that plate, but does it still get plenty of air?

yeah its come together well im very happy with it

Nice looking turnout mate. The canopy suits it well.

I ordered my Crew Cab XLT towards the end of June and was told i should have it by the end of July, then mid Aug then end Aug then first week in Sep then by last week and now its Monday. 13 weeks exactly asuming i do get it Monday. At least i know its at the dealer now!
I hear you mate!
I have changed my order from an auto to a manual, just to get the thing this year! Now.........just gotta find me a signwriter!

If anyone is interested, there are a few Ranger clips on YouTube YouTube - Broadcast Yourself. (http://www.youtube.com/)
In search type Ford Ranger and bypass the US models( different from ours). The Thai clips are pretty interesting, some excellent rainforest and canyon trails.
Also a new TV commercial (not sure where it is from, but pretty good).

Enjoy

If anyone is interested, there are a few Ranger clips on YouTube YouTube - Broadcast Yourself. (http://www.youtube.com/)
In search type Ford Ranger and bypass the US models( different from ours). The Thai clips are pretty interesting, some excellent rainforest and canyon trails.
Also a new TV commercial (not sure where it is from, but pretty good).

Enjoy


Thanks for that adfromoz... I hadn't thought of looking for Ranger stuff on YouTube.

Cheers! :)

Have a look at anything that sound like it is from the UK ( derbyshire etc) and one called Fearless Ranger (I think).
Couyple of River crossings and hill decents from the UK are pretty good, the The ad is from Malaysia and is a ripper.

Ad

Have a look at anything that sound like it is from the UK ( derbyshire etc) and one called Fearless Ranger (I think).
Couyple of River crossings and hill decents from the UK are pretty good, the The ad is from Malaysia and is a ripper.

Ad


Yeah I like that Ad... it craps all over the ads we get in Oz with King Neptune :confused:

Hi all, just a quick question about the new ranger 4x4 crewcab. does it have child restraint anchor points? I see in the mazda bt-50 that it does. trying to decide which one i should go for. Wife is expecting so anchor points are pretty much vital. thanks..

Al

Hi all, just a quick question about the new ranger 4x4 crewcab. does it have child restraint anchor points? I see in the mazda bt-50 that it does. trying to decide which one i should go for. Wife is expecting so anchor points are pretty much vital. thanks..

Al


G'day ak73.

Yes the Ranger crewcab does have child restraint anchor points. There are 2 in the panel behind the back seats, in the centre of the left and right seating positions.

Good luck with your choice betwen the Mazda and Ford. As you probably already know, there bugger all difference between them besides cosmetics and trim options so the choice may come down to which you prefer the look of or perhaps more importantly, which dealer will give you the best deal. Personally I received nearly $7,000 off RRP off my brand new Ranger XLT crewcab without even haggling. Since then I've noticed a few tiny but nice things with the Ranger that the BT-50 lacks... for example, on the Mazda the intercooler doesn't have a protective cover (the Ranger does), on the Mazda the fuel filler cap is cut out the rear wheel flare (on the Ranger the filler cap is incorporated into the wheel flare which I reckon looks nicer). I have a feeling the Ranger might hold its resale value better than the BT-50 but I could be proven wrong. Despite the great deal I got from my Ford dealer I preferred the tougher (F-truck inspired) look of the Ranger versus the softer look (in my opinion) of the BT-50.

All the best mate! :-)

PS: I'm not a Ford rep/dealer/etc... not even a "Ford man" until recently. I recently traded in my beloved 260kw 5.7 litre V8 Calais on the Ford Ranger.

I hear you mate!
I have changed my order from an auto to a manual, just to get the thing this year! Now.........just gotta find me a signwriter!

If your looking for a silver metalic auto XLT they have one in stock at Etheridge Ford Ringwood Vic. www.etheridgeford.com.au (http://www.etheridgeford.com.au)

I picked up mine last Wednesday Had it out up the back of the Thompson dam over the weekend. Very Happy!!

If your looking for a silver metalic auto XLT they have one in stock at Etheridge Ford Ringwood Vic. www.etheridgeford.com.au (http://www.etheridgeford.com.au)

I picked up mine last Wednesday Had it out up the back of the Thompson dam over the weekend. Very Happy!!

G'day 'Dragn88'
Did you buy your Ranger from Etheridge? If so, I hope you got a good deal. I went there when I was looking to buy my Ranger earlier this year but they embarassed themselves with an insulting offer for my trade-in and their change-over price sucked compared to where I ended up getting my XLT crewcab from (Knox Ford Ferntree Gully). I would never go back to Etheridge or recommend them to anyone. Knox Ford F'TGully on the other hand... brilliant!!! They gave me exactly what I was after for my trade plus over $7000 off RRP on my new Ranger plus $1200 off my Carryboy Canopy plus bonnet protector and mats at cost price.

What size BFG's did you go for? I'm thinking of doing the same swap myself.

Thanks for the heads-up mate, but I picked up a white (getting signwritten) XLT supercab manual last friday, so I'm set. Have not got off-road yet, but loving the on-road manners. It has got some poke that's for sure!

I was checking for Ranger accessories and came accross this from the Malaysian Ford website.
Familiar looking face!
Don't know what it is based on, but maybe this could be the real 4X4 that the Territory isn't?
I'll look into it.

bce,
i did buy from etheridge and they beat the price i got from Ferntree gully, i didn't trade in though and nobody would touch the price they gave me.

I went with the 245/70R16 standard size. you cant fit much bigger on the ranger XLT as there is less than an inch clearance to the flared guard and tyre when at near full lock. A guy on another thread (BT50 wheels and tyres or somthing) said his 255/70R16's rub on full lock.

bce,
i did buy from etheridge and they beat the price i got from Ferntree gully, i didn't trade in though and nobody would touch the price they gave me.

I went with the 245/70R16 standard size. you cant fit much bigger on the ranger XLT as there is less than an inch clearance to the flared guard and tyre when at near full lock. A guy on another thread (BT50 wheels and tyres or somthing) said his 255/70R16's rub on full lock.

dragn88,
Glad to hear you got a good deal at Etheridge and thanks for the info on the tyres. Cheers! :thumb:

PS: On a different note... what sort of fuel economy rate are you getting?

My Supercab Manual has done 10.52L/100km on its first tank and down to 9.4L/100km on its best tank out of 5 tanks of fuel so far.

My last tank was 10.3L/100km but last week I was running around the city all week and it was working hard the whole time.

My best tanks (9.4L/100km) actually occured when I did 130km of it offroad. Putting around at 1500rpm is great for fuel economy :)

I don't have any accessories yet but the most weight I would have carried would have been around 200kgs.

Mimmo

I was checking for Ranger accessories and came accross this from the Malaysian Ford website.
Familiar looking face!
Don't know what it is based on, but maybe this could be the real 4X4 that the Territory isn't?
I'll look into it.


They have had wagon versions of the utes overseas for years the ones that we have had in Australia are the toyota 4 runner which is based on the hilux, Mitisubishi challenger based on the triton and we even had the ford wagon at one stage and it was called the ford raider and was based on the courier at the time. I was overseas and they still were selling wagon versions of the ford ute in our previous courier shape it all comes down to demand and that our country is still to small to get all the options but with the new great diesel motors could be time the 4runners and raiders are bought back as these would make good strong outback tourers but I guess a ute with canopy is just as nice.

My Supercab Manual has done 10.52L/100km on its first tank and down to 9.4L/100km on its best tank out of 5 tanks of fuel so far.

My last tank was 10.3L/100km but last week I was running around the city all week and it was working hard the whole time.

My best tanks (9.4L/100km) actually occured when I did 130km of it offroad. Putting around at 1500rpm is great for fuel economy :)

I don't have any accessories yet but the most weight I would have carried would have been around 200kgs.

Mimmo


Mimmo.
Thanks for your economy figures :thumb: They sound similar to mine in that you appear to be using on average less than 1L/100km more than the figures quoted by Ford on their website (according to Ford your Supercab manual = 9.2 and my Crewcab auto = 10.4). I've had my Ranger since April and have just clicked over 15,000kms after returning yesterday from The Grampians Nat Park in VIC. Since day one, my average economy rate has been 11.2 but since I started using a diesel conditioner about 5,000kms ago my economy has been about 10.9. I have a canopy & nudgebar fitted, always carry at least 1 passenger and often 3, and I've always got gear in the back so I am pretty happy with my economy overall.

Anyone else with economy figures for their Rangers? :truck:

First fill @ 259Km 53.43 Ltrs
After that

478Km, 52.2Ltrs, 10.9L/100K (includes some light 4x4 with day trip gear, 2 adults +2 kids)
378Km, 35.68Ltrs, 9.4L/100K
620.2Km, 56.82Ltrs, 9.2L/100K (return trip to Portland no load, 1 adult)
608.6Km, 52.49Ltrs, 8.6L/100K
Thats an average consumption of 9.5L/100k

If the fuel consumption keeps coming down like this i'll be happy!

One thing though, i have found that there may be some variation due to the foaming of the Diesel. This is my first Diesel so i'm not used to it, i've settled on a 2 click system for establishing "full" i.e. i fill untill the first click, let the foam settle and fill untill the next click and thats it. When filling at high flow bowsers there may be slightly less fuel but at least i don't get the spit back.

They have had wagon versions of the utes overseas for years the ones that we have had in Australia are the toyota 4 runner which is based on the hilux, Mitisubishi challenger based on the triton and we even had the ford wagon at one stage and it was called the ford raider and was based on the courier at the time. I was overseas and they still were selling wagon versions of the ford ute in our previous courier shape it all comes down to demand and that our country is still to small to get all the options but with the new great diesel motors could be time the 4runners and raiders are bought back as these would make good strong outback tourers but I guess a ute with canopy is just as nice.

Yes, I had a couple of "Surf" model Hilux wagons before (I handled the Customs work for a couple of importers). I find that the Ranger is very similar to drive as the second one I had that had the KZN185 3.0L Motor (had the same chassis and running gear as a Prado).
I like the extra space that the Ute gives me.
I'll be interested to get this off-road and compare that.

First fill @ 259Km 53.43 Ltrs
After that

478Km, 52.2Ltrs, 10.9L/100K (includes some light 4x4 with day trip gear, 2 adults +2 kids)
378Km, 35.68Ltrs, 9.4L/100K
620.2Km, 56.82Ltrs, 9.2L/100K (return trip to Portland no load, 1 adult)
608.6Km, 52.49Ltrs, 8.6L/100K
Thats an average consumption of 9.5L/100k

If the fuel consumption keeps coming down like this i'll be happy!

One thing though, i have found that there may be some variation due to the foaming of the Diesel. This is my first Diesel so i'm not used to it, i've settled on a 2 click system for establishing "full" i.e. i fill untill the first click, let the foam settle and fill untill the next click and thats it. When filling at high flow bowsers there may be slightly less fuel but at least i don't get the spit back.


dragn88,
Great numbers there mate :thumb: must be a manual transmission though... better be a manual otherwise I'll be really jealous! ;)
What more can you ask for than to get an econ rate of only 9L/100 from a 2 tonne 4x4? Why would anyone want a V6 petrol? :p Long live the Common-Rail TD!!!

bce,
Yep its a manual!!

Hi

I have just purchased a XLT Ranger Super Cab and now am in the process of fitting it out. Can anyone assist with the following:
1. Bonnet Protector and Head Light protectors
2. Suspension lifts

Thx

Scottii Ford do a plastic bonnet and headlight protectors heres the link

Ford Australia - Ranger Accessories (http://www.ford.com.au/servlet/ContentServer?cid=1163397440263&pagename=FOA%2FDFYPage%2FDefault1024&c=DFYPage)

Just remember the prices are for fitted..although I don't know why you wouldn't do them yourself.

I just organised for OME suspension upgrade for my Mazda BT-50 doesn't come with much lift at the front though as it is designed to basically offset the extra weight from my winch and bullbar that is getting fitted at the same time. Should be around 20mm lift at the front and they set the back similar so the car sits right.

Hi

I have just purchased a XLT Ranger Super Cab and now am in the process of fitting it out. Can anyone assist with the following:
1. Bonnet Protector and Head Light protectors
2. Suspension lifts

Thx

G'day Scottii.

Congrats on your purchase... you wont be disappointed :D
I have a tinted ("smoked" I think they call it) genuine Ford Ranger bonnet protector (bought it from Ford dealer at cost price at time of purchase)... very easy to fit, it does the job and looks good too I reckon.
I wouldnt bother with headlight protectors because unless Im misinformed, these types of headlight lenses are practically shatter proof these days.
Cant help you with lift kits because I havent done that to my Ranger nor researched it.

Cheers,
BCE.

dragn,bce & mimmo
What sort of speeds are you blokes sitting on, im not getting that good fuel econ. possible the bigger wheels maybe have something to do with it (bce i cut the mud flaps and no more scraping) it had a service on thurs and i went to elliston fishing on fri, 3 up with usual camping & fishing gear. i do brake the speed limit a little but, its a bit hard to tell with out a gps because of the 255x70x16 wheels but heres my last 3 tanks worth of fuel, if im working it out correctly, its a bit short of everyone else's econ.
502.6km 55.06l = 9.12 km/l = 10.96l/100
341.2km 48.95l = 6.97 km/l = 14.34l/100
395.0km 57.23l = 6.90 km/l = 14.49l/100
my best is only
372.0km 39.37l = 9.44 km/l = 10.59l/100
my average is
5584.0km 679.35l = 8.21 km/l = 12.18l/100
going on other people getting 8's & 9's i thing i better ease up on the right boot
thanks for the food for thought !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cheer's

polecat

Ok your running 30". Im running 31's and get 8 - 9kms/ltr. I'd get your pump leaned off a little or you may have a slightly blocked gauzed filter which is located on your pump.

dragn,bce & mimmo
What sort of speeds are you blokes sitting on, im not getting that good fuel econ. possible the bigger wheels maybe have something to do with it (bce i cut the mud flaps and no more scraping) it had a service on thurs and i went to elliston fishing on fri, 3 up with usual camping & fishing gear. i do brake the speed limit a little but, its a bit hard to tell with out a gps because of the 255x70x16 wheels but heres my last 3 tanks worth of fuel, if im working it out correctly, its a bit short of everyone else's econ.
502.6km 55.06l = 9.12 km/l = 10.96l/100
341.2km 48.95l = 6.97 km/l = 14.34l/100
395.0km 57.23l = 6.90 km/l = 14.49l/100
my best is only
372.0km 39.37l = 9.44 km/l = 10.59l/100
my average is
5584.0km 679.35l = 8.21 km/l = 12.18l/100
going on other people getting 8's & 9's i thing i better ease up on the right boot
thanks for the food for thought !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cheer's

polecat

Pole cat, the 255/70R16s are only 14mm bigger in dia which equates to about 1.8 % in circumfrence therefore 1.8% on the odometer.
This makes your Av
5684Km 679.35l =8.3Km/l = 11.95l/100Km (not much in it)
The extra weight in the tyres might count for some of the problem too but I suspect that you should take some of the lead out of your right boot. I Stick to the speed limit as much as humanly possible now as there are cameras everywhere. They used to say its not a matter of if you get done but when, but i've found its more like how often!!

On another note.
I've got a GPS in the car and i've found that when the speedo says 100Km/h the GPS says 92Km/h (8% low), although if i log a journey the total Km travelled is within 4% when compared to the trip Km. Id be interested if anyone else has done similar comparisons.

Pole cat, the 255/70R16s are only 14mm bigger in dia which equates to about 1.8 % in circumfrence therefore 1.8% on the odometer.
This makes your Av
5684Km 679.35l =8.3Km/l = 11.95l/100Km (not much in it)
The extra weight in the tyres might count for some of the problem too but I suspect that you should take some of the lead out of your right boot. I Stick to the speed limit as much as humanly possible now as there are cameras everywhere. They used to say its not a matter of if you get done but when, but i've found its more like how often!!

On another note.
I've got a GPS in the car and i've found that when the speedo says 100Km/h the GPS says 92Km/h (8% low), although if i log a journey the total Km travelled is within 4% when compared to the trip Km. Id be interested if anyone else has done similar comparisons.


dragn
Is that 1.8% diff from the standard 245/70 16's on the xlt's or the 235/75 15's on the xl which is what mine came with, if its for the 16's that would make it a bigger % diff. on the 15's, so my fuel econ maybe even better?

I have just done about 330km sitting on 110, on the speedo,Ill see what sort of econ that will give me next time i fill up.

cheers

polecat :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

On another note.
I've got a GPS in the car and i've found that when the speedo says 100Km/h the GPS says 92Km/h (8% low), although if i log a journey the total Km travelled is within 4% when compared to the trip Km. Id be interested if anyone else has done similar comparisons.


G'day dragn88,
I also use a GPS (bloody brilliant invention!!!) and it always displays 5% less than the speedo reading...
- When speedo says 100, GPS says 95
- When speedo says 80, GPS says 76
- When speedo says 60, GPS says 57

And, despite them copping some flack about their innaccuracy, whenever I go through one of those 'speed check' gantries on the highways around Melbourne, they always display the same speed as my GPS.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

dragn,bce & mimmo
What sort of speeds are you blokes sitting on, im not getting that good fuel econ. possible the bigger wheels maybe have something to do with it (bce i cut the mud flaps and no more scraping) it had a service on thurs and i went to elliston fishing on fri, 3 up with usual camping & fishing gear. i do brake the speed limit a little but, its a bit hard to tell with out a gps because of the 255x70x16 wheels but heres my last 3 tanks worth of fuel, if im working it out correctly, its a bit short of everyone else's econ.
502.6km 55.06l = 9.12 km/l = 10.96l/100
341.2km 48.95l = 6.97 km/l = 14.34l/100
395.0km 57.23l = 6.90 km/l = 14.49l/100
my best is only
372.0km 39.37l = 9.44 km/l = 10.59l/100
my average is
5584.0km 679.35l = 8.21 km/l = 12.18l/100
going on other people getting 8's & 9's i thing i better ease up on the right boot
thanks for the food for thought !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cheer's

polecat


G'day Polecat,
I "try" not to go over 105kph (on the speedo) on the highway which is actually 100 on the GPS. At this speed the tacho is smack on 2000rpm.

Dragn88 was right about the 1.8% difference the tyre size you mentioned makes but yes that is a comparison between your aftermarket 255/70/16's and the stock XLT 245/70/16. The difference your new tyres make compared to the stock XL 235/75/15's your vehicle was originally fitted with is about 4.1%. Given that my speedo reads approx 5% over my GPS I reckon your speedo is almost 100% accurate with the tyres you've put on. What this means is, when you are doing 110 on your speedo and I'm 110 on my speedo, you ARE doing 110 but I'm only doing 105kph.

More speed in top gear = more revs = more fuel.

PS: Thanks for the mudflap tip.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

dragn
I have just done about 330km sitting on 110, on the speedo,Ill see what sort of econ that will give me next time i fill up.

cheers

polecat :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:


Polecat,
Sitting on 110kph, which as previously discussed is probably 110 taking into account speedo inaccuray and your bigger tyres, then I reckon your economy will be in the region of 11.5-12L/100km which is better than the mid-14's you quoted on a couple of your tanks.

Let us know how your next fill-up goes, cheers!
I'd also like to know what speed your speedo reads (in top gear cruising on flat road) when your tacho reads 2000rpm.

Mine reads 105kph (which is 100kph on the GPS) at 2000rpm.

BCE.

Polecat,
Sitting on 110kph, which as previously discussed is probably 110 taking into account speedo inaccuray and your bigger tyres, then I reckon your economy will be in the region of 11.5-12L/100km which is better than the mid-14's you quoted on a couple of your tanks.

Let us know how your next fill-up goes, cheers!
I'd also like to know what speed your speedo reads (in top gear cruising on flat road) when your tacho reads 2000rpm.

Mine reads 105kph (which is 100kph on the GPS) at 2000rpm.

BCE.

BCE

just filled up 346.5km for 38.45l = 9.01km/l = 11.09l/100 which is getting better, but checking tacho against speedo has opened another can of worms,
90km/h = 2000rpm
100km/h = 2200rpm
110km/h = 2450rpm
120km/h = 2600rpm

90km/h @ 2000rpm is a fair diff to 105km/h!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have just rang Ford and they said that a lot of Ranger owner's are saying that their speedo is out, in test's that Ford have done they have found that the speedo's are out by 10%, (slower) not the 5% which is norm. They seem to think that with the bigger tyre's im running that my speedo will be more accurate than standard, I have a mate with a hand held gps i might give that a go next day's off.
So what have i learn't here,I have no bloody idea what speed im sitting on or what econ. im getting, or mine might be closer than everyone else's oh well as Ned said such is life.

This subject needs more investigation, i will let you know how i go with the gps.

cheer's

polecat

:drink: :crazy: :drink: :crazy: :drink: :crazy:

it's enough to make a man drink & bang his head !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The only problem I have had with my BT-50 is that my speedo is out by a fair bit. I am going slower than it shows so I have no problem with speed cameras luckily.

Through my work I have access to laser speed guns, guess what I do for a living lol.

Anyway I got a few reading last night they were as follows.

Speedo says 50 actual speed is 43
Speedo says 70 actual speed is 62
Speedo says 90 actual speed is 81

So its is out by about 10% and I will be getting it fixed at Mazda. For anyone who has a similar problem I suggest you to get it fixed under warranty as this does NOT comply with the current ADR's for new vehicles and as such they must fix it.

And in case you are wondering I have the standard 16inch rims and tyres that came with the SDX model. So the speedo should be reading closer to the actual speed that it is.

i just went for a spin and my ranger at 2000rpm is doing 98 km/r

rogie & bce
where have you mounted the body part of your tx3440?????????????

i have mine mounted under the drivers seat rogie & bce
where have you mounted the body part of your tx3440?????????????

BCE

just filled up 346.5km for 38.45l = 9.01km/l = 11.09l/100 which is getting better, but checking tacho against speedo has opened another can of worms,
90km/h = 2000rpm
100km/h = 2200rpm
110km/h = 2450rpm
120km/h = 2600rpm

90km/h @ 2000rpm is a fair diff to 105km/h!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have just rang Ford and they said that a lot of Ranger owner's are saying that their speedo is out, in test's that Ford have done they have found that the speedo's are out by 10%, (slower) not the 5% which is norm. They seem to think that with the bigger tyre's im running that my speedo will be more accurate than standard, I have a mate with a hand held gps i might give that a go next day's off.
So what have i learn't here,I have no bloody idea what speed im sitting on or what econ. im getting, or mine might be closer than everyone else's oh well as Ned said such is life.

This subject needs more investigation, i will let you know how i go with the gps.

cheer's

polecat

it's enough to make a man drink & bang his head !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Polecat,
That's great news about your recent tanks economy... the prob was definitely your right foot I'd say :D
Ford are right about your speedo being more accurate with your bigger tyres.
Your tacho readings are strange though! Do you have manual or auto... I ask because the 5th gear ratio is different between trans types which could explain the difference between your 90kph @2000rpm and my 105 (100)kph @2000rpm. The other explanation is of course we don't know for sure what our actual real speeds are.

Keep them econ figures coming down Polecat :thumb:

rogie & bce
where have you mounted the body part of your tx3440?????????????

I did similar to Rogie, but mounted mine under the passenger seat. Under the passenger seat (and maybe the driver seat as well) there are mounting tabs which I believe is a 'throw-back' from the Courier days for a CD stacker cradle. I bolted a stainless steel plate (approx 200mm x 50mm x 2mm) across the tabs to create a solid platforn for the TX3440 cradle to be attached to.... beautiful :D Great radio too!

Can post pics if you are interested.

Cheers,
BCE.

The only problem I have had with my BT-50 is that my speedo is out by a fair bit. I am going slower than it shows so I have no problem with speed cameras luckily.

Through my work I have access to laser speed guns, guess what I do for a living lol.

Anyway I got a few reading last night they were as follows.

Speedo says 50 actual speed is 43
Speedo says 70 actual speed is 62
Speedo says 90 actual speed is 81

So its is out by about 10% and I will be getting it fixed at Mazda. For anyone who has a similar problem I suggest you to get it fixed under warranty as this does NOT comply with the current ADR's for new vehicles and as such they must fix it.

And in case you are wondering I have the standard 16inch rims and tyres that came with the SDX model. So the speedo should be reading closer to the actual speed that it is.

G'day TheGrub,
Even though you drive the Mazda I'll still talk to you ;)
10% discrepancy huh? That's not good! Pretty sure mine is only 5% out so I'll live with that. Thanks for the laser gun figures and the advice :thumb:

Cheers,
BCE.

BCE,

I to have a GME TX3440 on order should arrive soon, they seem popular looking at this thread.

I wouldn't mind seeing some pics of you how you mounted yours. I was think of doing something similar although I'm not sure if the BT-50 has the mounting tabs under the seat you refered to.

I might go and check for the tabs now....

My Ranger is sitting on 2200-2300rpm at 100km/h so that seems on par with everyone else here.

Judging by me sitting at that speed whilst on the road most other cars appear to be going slower than me when my speedo indicates 100. However in my previous rides I found the same thing. Whats strange though is at speeds such as 60 and 70 everyone else wants to pass me??

Something I have tried to help with the fuel economy is to get the vehicle in the torque band and let the torque pull the vehicle up to speed rather than you putting your foot down to get it through the revs faster as this does little but burn diesel. As there is little difference in acceleration with full throttle and 3/4 throttle, but a big difference in the amount of diesel used.

Mimmo

BCE,

I to have a GME TX3440 on order should arrive soon, they seem popular looking at this thread.

I wouldn't mind seeing some pics of you how you mounted yours. I was think of doing something similar although I'm not sure if the BT-50 has the mounting tabs under the seat you refered to.

I might go and check for the tabs now....


No worries mate... will do. Will sort some pics out in the next day or 2.

PS: I've had the radio mounted for a couple of months now but I still haven't decided on where I'll put the mic holder. At the moment, when in use the mic sits on the passenger seat, in the drink holder or in that square tray above the drink holder. I must do something about this :confused:

Cheers,
BCE.

Something I have tried to help with the fuel economy is to get the vehicle in the torque band and let the torque pull the vehicle up to speed rather than you putting your foot down to get it through the revs faster as this does little but burn diesel. As there is little difference in acceleration with full throttle and 3/4 throttle, but a big difference in the amount of diesel used.

Mimmo


Good tip there Mimmo :thumb:

i just went for a spin and my ranger at 2000rpm is doing 98 km/r

Almost exactly the same as mine.

On a totally different subject, I notice from the file properties of some pics of your Ranger you posted at the start of this thread that the pics were taken with the same camera I have... a Panasonic FZ30. Awesome digi-cam huh? I had the FZ5 before this one but the 30 kicks it butt.

great to hear people are liking their Rangers. It was my pick of the crop in the Ute test and something I would love to have in the garage but $$$$ don't allow at the moment.

BCE,

I to have a GME TX3440 on order should arrive soon, they seem popular looking at this thread.

I wouldn't mind seeing some pics of you how you mounted yours. I was think of doing something similar although I'm not sure if the BT-50 has the mounting tabs under the seat you refered to.

I might go and check for the tabs now....


TheGrub,
Here are a few pics of my GME TX3440 UHF radio installation under the front passenger seat. The pics are taken from the rear seat with the front passenger seat pushed all the way forward. When the front passenger seat is in any normal position, the radio mounted in this way is in no way at all in the way of rear passenger foot space. There's also a pic of my extension speaker placement... the ext-speaker is a GME SPK04 "copy" and fits beautifully (without needing to screw it down) in the recess in front of the drink holders. Also indulged myself by adding a couple pics of the rig :D Cheers, BCE :thumb:

yeah i have a FZ30 its a fantastic camera,i have a FZ10 that i gave my mum and she loves it,i also have a TZ3 which is awesome as has wideangle i took it to france a few minths ago and left the FZ30 at home,and i use it in 16/9 mode and then connect my laptop to my 50inch panasonic plasma or the panasonic PTAE 900 projector i have for my home theartre the pics come up very good for viewing when all my mates are around,back to the cameras im keeping an eye on the new panasonic L10 SLR and the 28 -300 lens that will be available for it shortly it should be a awesome combination

Almost exactly the same as mine.

On a totally different subject, I notice from the file properties of some pics of your Ranger you posted at the start of this thread that the pics were taken with the same camera I have... a Panasonic FZ30. Awesome digi-cam huh? I had the FZ5 before this one but the 30 kicks it butt.

how do you find the auto? i came so close to buying one as we do heaps of sand driveing where i live

TheGrub,
Here are a few pics of my GME TX3440 UHF radio installation under the front passenger seat. The pics are taken from the rear seat with the front passenger seat pushed all the way forward. When the front passenger seat is in any normal position, the radio mounted in this way is in no way at all in the way of rear passenger foot space. There's also a pic of my extension speaker placement... the ext-speaker is a GME SPK04 "copy" and fits beautifully (without needing to screw it down) in the recess in front of the drink holders. Also indulged myself by adding a couple pics of the rig :D Cheers, BCE :thumb:

yeah i have a FZ30 its a fantastic camera,i have a FZ10 that i gave my mum and she loves it,i also have a TZ3 which is awesome as has wideangle i took it to france a few minths ago and left the FZ30 at home,and i use it in 16/9 mode and then connect my laptop to my 50inch panasonic plasma or the panasonic PTAE 900 projector i have for my home theartre the pics come up very good for viewing when all my mates are around,back to the cameras im keeping an eye on the new panasonic L10 SLR and the 28 -300 lens that will be available for it shortly it should be a awesome combination

Nice setup Rogie... do you work for or have shares in Panasonic? ;)
I'm off to Europe next year for about 6 wks & will also leave the FZ30 at home but I havent decided on which compact to buy/take... are you happy with the TZ3? I didnt know Pana had released an SLR... I will have to check it out. Cheers, BCE :thumb:

Thanks for the pic's BCE. Nice job too on the install. I checked my BT-50 last night and it has those two tabs under the passenger seat so I think I might do the same when my damn TX3440 turns up. I was hoping it would get here today but it didn't :cry:

im very happy with the TZ3 it has a 28-280 zoom and 3 inch screen and as far as im concerned takes great pics dont forget its a $600 point and shoot not a SLR,yeah i do have a fair bit of panasonic stuff the cameras have leica designed lenses and are a cut above most cameras in that department,oh the panasonic SLR can be preorderd on the aussie camera sites and be available late this month,but as usual will pay a premium when first relaeased,i will give you a link to the global website
LUMIX | Digital Camera | Panasonic (http://panasonic.co.jp/pavc/global/lumix/index.html)

Nice setup Rogie... do you work for or have shares in Panasonic? ;)
I'm off to Europe next year for about 6 wks & will also leave the FZ30 at home but I havent decided on which compact to buy/take... are you happy with the TZ3? I didnt know Pana had released an SLR... I will have to check it out. Cheers, BCE :thumb:

how do you find the auto? i came so close to buying one as we do heaps of sand driveing where i live

The auto is pretty good although a little clunky from 3rd to 4th under light accceleration (I have raised this with my dealer and they will monitor it over the coming service intervals). Apart from that it changes pretty smoothly and being close-ratio, acceleration is swift if you need to get off the line & up to the speed limit quickly. The auto was the only choice for me because I do a lot of city driving so a manual would have been a pain the @rse, I needed an auto to encourage the missus to drive it, plus because I'm new to the offroad caper I figured I could get into less trouble with the auto because its smarter than I am ;)
Cheers, BCE :thumb:

Thanks for the pic's BCE. Nice job too on the install. I checked my BT-50 last night and it has those two tabs under the passenger seat so I think I might do the same when my damn TX3440 turns up. I was hoping it would get here today but it didn't :cry:

No worries mate, and good luck with getting your TX3440 very soon.
Cheers, BCE :thumb:

im very happy with the TZ3 it has a 28-280 zoom and 3 inch screen and as far as im concerned takes great pics dont forget its a $600 point and shoot not a SLR,yeah i do have a fair bit of panasonic stuff the cameras have leica designed lenses and are a cut above most cameras in that department,oh the panasonic SLR can be preorderd on the aussie camera sites and be available late this month,but as usual will pay a premium when first relaeased,i will give you a link to the global website
LUMIX | Digital Camera | Panasonic (http://panasonic.co.jp/pavc/global/lumix/index.html)


Thanks for that Rogie. Yeah I know the TZ3 is a point & shoot... I'm after a good quality compact point & shoot with good features to take to Europe so I dont have lug around the FZ30. I'm very happy with my Pana stuff so I'll check out the TZ3.
Cheers, BCE :thumb:

Hi all

Of the people who did the speed and rpm test, can we find out who has what trans & spec level vehicle please.
I was in a works Ranger today, it was a xl crew cab man. with standard tyre's and the rpm & speed was the same as mine.
On Sat I will test mine with a gps, so ill let you know how that goes.

Thanks
polecat

Hi all

Of the people who did the speed and rpm test, can we find out who has what trans & spec level vehicle please.
I was in a works Ranger today, it was a xl crew cab man. with standard tyre's and the rpm & speed was the same as mine.
On Sat I will test mine with a gps, so ill let you know how that goes.

Thanks
polecat

Here's my vehicle details Polecat...
- XLT Crew Cab, Automatic, standard 245/70/16's
- My speedo displays speed 5% faster than actual...
105kph (on speedo) = 100kph (on GPS)
- In 5th gear cruising on flat road at the speed shown above, my tacho reads 2000rpm exactly.

Cheers, BCE :thumb:

yeah i would have a good look at it its a good cam and there is no distortion at the 28mm end which is very rare

Thanks for that Rogie. Yeah I know the TZ3 is a point & shoot... I'm after a good quality compact point & shoot with good features to take to Europe so I dont have lug around the FZ30. I'm very happy with my Pana stuff so I'll check out the TZ3.
Cheers, BCE :thumb:

great to hear people are liking their Rangers. It was my pick of the crop in the Ute test and something I would love to have in the garage but $$$$ don't allow at the moment.

Keep saving your bickies Grimbo, you wont be disappointed if/when you do get one :thumb:

Of the people who did the speed and rpm test, can we find out who has what trans & spec level vehicle please.

Hi Polecat,

Mine is an XL Supercab Manual with stock rims and tyres.

Cheers

Mimmo

Gday all,

I own a auto dual cab 4wd with 7000km on the clock i find im happy with the performance but have found during driving up long hills that the vechile losses power by the time you are half way up you feel like you are driving a non turbo diesel . I have had looked under the bonnet and believe the EMS may sense inlet temperature and limit boost and or air flow as there is a vacuum/boost driven butterfly on the inlet manifold.

Any thoughs or experience on this?

As for fuel usage 11.9l per 100 around town

and 10.2l per on hiway driving.

Thanks

G,Day all

1st chance i have had to get back on line, went out on the weekend with gps to check out the speedo & i think that between 50km/h & 120km/h there is about .5km differance, from speedo & gps so im happy that, that issue has been sorted out.

mal261
i have had no experience with your problem, but will watch with intrest so keep us all up to date

cheer's

polecat

Just to confirm that my manual xlt crew cab has averaged 9 l/100 over the past 21k. cannot get it to go worse than 9.6 l/100 with best of 7.8. As someone else said it seems best when you are travelling around 60 kph on windy dirt roads just using the unbelievable torque.

Yes I have checked the speedo against a gps and the speedo is out by 10%. Ford MUST fix this. However, the odometer isn't too bad and so the fuel economy calculations are probably only 2 % out if you use the odo. At a true 100kph the rpm's are 2350.

Accessories so far are the ford bullbar, log ranger tank ( thats about 1300kms) and a 2nd battery. you can put a 70amp one in by moving the horn and the push the main wiring up and insulate. Next is a snorkel as after 1500ks on dirt the filter is clogged. under the guard is just no good outback. Also put an auscruise in. great touring vehicle.

If anyone wants a sportsbar and tub liner give us a yell 0418294633.

Just to confirm that my manual xlt crew cab has averaged 9 l/100 over the past 21k. cannot get it to go worse than 9.6 l/100 with best of 7.8.

Accessories so far are the ford bullbar, log ranger tank ( thats about 1300kms) and a 2nd battery. you can put a 70amp one in by moving the horn and the push the main wiring up and insulate. Next is a snorkel as after 1500ks on dirt the filter is clogged. under the guard is just no good outback. Also put an auscruise in. great touring vehicle.

If anyone wants a sportsbar and tub liner give us a yell 0418294633.


G'day Crunchie,
Great economy figures mate!!! I almost wish I had a manual now ;) Can I ask how big (litres) and how much (dollars) was your long range fuel tank? Also how much did you pay for your Auscruise? I'm looking at getting a 'Command' cruise control fitted by my local Ford dealer... they're asking $500 + $250 fitting... I think the fitting charge is pretty steep! PS: I sold my sports bar on ebay... I cleared $450 for it after delivery, advertising & ebay commission charges were taken out of the total sale price... I was happy with this price because the bar was useless to me after I fitted the Carryboy canopy.

Cheers!
BCE :thumb:

G,Day all

1st chance i have had to get back on line, went out on the weekend with gps to check out the speedo & i think that between 50km/h & 120km/h there is about .5km differance, from speedo & gps so im happy that, that issue has been sorted out.

cheer's

polecat

Polecat,
Good to hear you've sorted that out cos it sounded like it was starting to bug you. I think I said in an earlier message (page 5 or 6) that your bigger tyres would offset your speedo inaccuracy therefore make your speedo display an almost 100% correct reading. How's the economy going?... numbers still dropping or is the right foot having too much fun :D

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Howdy all, new to this so please be patient if i ask silly questions.

Picked up my new Turbo XLT Dual cab Ranger 2 months ago and its been sweet until last week, has any one suffered any sort of coolant leaks from the engine. Mine seems to weep coolant when its cool from behind the silver plate that the turbo mounts to.

Also whats your experence from Ford service after the purchase, i seem to be getting the cold shoulder.

Cheers

rogie

was the increase in performance that noticable with the Steinbauer?
whats the aus cruise worth?

G'day Polecat,
Just thought I'd revisit this post you made a while ago in case you were thinking/planning on getting cruise control fitted. The AUSCRUISE (made by Autron) Rogie installed is, as far as I am aware, the only cruise control made for the Ranger that utilises the existing "drive-by-wire" throttle technology on the Ranger. I'm getting mine fitted on Saturday for $695. If you decide to get this cruise installed, give Autron a call and ask for the phone numbers of a few authorised reseller/installers in your city and do the 'shoparound' for the best price. I rang 4 authorised installers in Melbourne and the prices I was quoted ranged from $899 to $695 for the same thing. Check their website out at Autron Pty Ltd (http://www.autron.com.au/newweb/index1024.htm)

PS: I rang many Ford dealers in Melbourne of which all except 2 did not offer any cruise control installs... of the 2 dealers that did, 1 offered the Autron AUSCRUISE for $995 installed and the other offered a "pedal-pull" cruise for $750. Don't get a "pedal-pull" cruise because it's old/low-technology and aguably dangerous.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Howdy all, new to this so please be patient if i ask silly questions.

Picked up my new Turbo XLT Dual cab Ranger 2 months ago and its been sweet until last week, has any one suffered any sort of coolant leaks from the engine. Mine seems to weep coolant when its cool from behind the silver plate that the turbo mounts to.

Also whats your experence from Ford service after the purchase, i seem to be getting the cold shoulder.

Cheers

Welcome Catchy and congrats on your purchase,
I haven't noticed any leaks at all but I think I will pay closer attention after your 'heads-up'.... thanks! I've had no probs with my Ford dealer either. Keep the pressure up on your dealer. I previously had a 5.7lt V8 Holden Calais and it suffered from the dreaded early Gen3 "piston-slap" problem and it used to burn oil like crazy (1 litre of engine oil gone on a 1,000km trip once) so I kept at them to do something about it... eventually after about 6 months they gave me a complete "brand-spankers" engine replacement. PS: I love my Ranger but I do miss the 250+ kw of tyre melting power and being able to do 110kph in 2nd gear :(

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Hi all

Of the people who did the speed and rpm test, can we find out who has what trans & spec level vehicle please.
I was in a works Ranger today, it was a xl crew cab man. with standard tyre's and the rpm & speed was the same as mine.
On Sat I will test mine with a gps, so ill let you know how that goes.

Thanks
polecat

Polecat, mine's a Manual XLT crew cab. just did a trip to the prom and returned 8.6 l/100Km.

I had it at the dealer today for the 3000Km checkup (actualy done 4000Km) and the dealer agreed that the speedo is out by more that 10% I cant quite work out why, but it seems to be out by 8 or 9 Km from 60 to 100Km/h. it doesn't apear to be out by a percentage so its not going to be an easy fix. The dealer said the Ford teck line knows about the problem but at this stage there is no fix.

Has anyone else noticd the Speedo and Tacho dont go to zero? I think it's a combination between needle position and gear ratio at the speedo take off in the trans/ geargox.

Just to confirm that my manual xlt crew cab has averaged 9 l/100 over the past 21k. cannot get it to go worse than 9.6 l/100 with best of 7.8. As someone else said it seems best when you are travelling around 60 kph on windy dirt roads just using the unbelievable torque.


If anyone wants a sportsbar and tub liner give us a yell 0418294633.

Crunchie, 7.8!! Awsome! Gota love that.
Are you selling the standard tub liner and bars that came with the vehicle? I already have same on mine so not interested in buying, just interested in why you've taken them off. Did you have a canopy fitted?

BCE, get the auscruise drive by wire turnout - it was specially developed for the ranger - fits on the steering while nicely. I paid $900 !

the long ranger is 127 litres and fitted for about $1200. contact out of town 4wd at barnsley.

DRAGN88, the bar is a wank thing and I needed a tonnuea for workin out of and it is easier to back and camp out of. the tub takes up too much room and is slippery - you know the intelocking camping mats they sell - they make a great mat in the back.

Howdy all, new to this so please be patient if i ask silly questions.

Picked up my new Turbo XLT Dual cab Ranger 2 months ago and its been sweet until last week, has any one suffered any sort of coolant leaks from the engine. Mine seems to weep coolant when its cool from behind the silver plate that the turbo mounts to.

Also whats your experence from Ford service after the purchase, i seem to be getting the cold shoulder.

Cheers

Catchy,
I've not had any problems loosing power, but i've only done one easy off road day trip. Did one nice little hill clime though and didn't suffer any power loss, in fact i was stoked with the torque. I'll let you know if anything changes. No probs with leaks either but as bce said, thanks for the heads up and i'll keep an eye on it.

As far as the dealer goes, i can't complain. they can't fix my speedo at the moment, but i'm sure Ford will issue a service buliton soon and they will fix it then. Dealers love warranty work as they are cash cows. They tend to shy away a bit if they don't know how to fix something though, if this happens you can always try another dealer, there is no rule to say that you have to get warranty work done at the dealer you bought the car from. Best to talk to them over the phone about it though to ensure there wont be any cost if they can't find anything.

PS the 7.8 was by the wife driving to sydney at about 90kph !!
and BCE I kept me V8 RTV ute so I can still do 130 in 2nd!!

BCE, get the auscruise drive by wire turnout - it was specially developed for the ranger - fits on the steering while nicely. I paid $900 !

the long ranger is 127 litres and fitted for about $1200. contact out of town 4wd at barnsley.

DRAGN88, the bar is a wank thing and I needed a tonnuea for workin out of and it is easier to back and camp out of. the tub takes up too much room and is slippery - you know the intelocking camping mats they sell - they make a great mat in the back.

Your right the bar is a wanky thing and the tonnuea with the bar leaks like a sieve. But still if i set up a false floor the way i think i am and the engel ends up on top behind the drivers side, the bar will offer some protection from the side. One thing i like about the tub liner though, it protects the top edge of the tub and the tail gate which a mat wont do, but i have to agree you do loose room and they're bloody slippery.

Do you have any photo's of the long ranger setup?

and BCE I kept me V8 RTV ute so I can still do 130 in 2nd!!

Crunchie,
Thanks for the AUSCRUISE tip in your previous post... I booked my car in to get this cruise installed this coming Saturday after I looked into the different types and decided the "pedal-pull" Command type sucked compared to the "drive-by-wire" AUSCRUISE... and at only $695 I'm happy as a pig in mud.

I wish I could have kept my 5.7lt V8 but I had to trade it in to afford the Ranger. I never pushed it much past 120kph in 2nd gear because the torque really dropped away beyond 4500rpm. If only I had the $ to have both the Ranger & keep my V8.

Do you have any photo's of the long ranger setup?

Dragn88,
Check this website out for 'The Long Ranger' 126Lt fuel tanks for the Ranger... few pics on there. They're disributed through ARB and sell in Melbourne for $892 + $240 fitting.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Dragn88,
Check this website out for 'The Long Ranger' 126Lt fuel tanks for the Ranger... few pics on there. They're disributed through ARB and sell in Melbourne for $892 + $240 fitting.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Cheers bce, wil check it out.

Cheers bce, wil check it out.

Dragn88,
Sorry mate, forgot to paste in the link :crazy:
Here it is...

:: The Long Ranger :: Long Range Fuel Tanks & Long Range Water Tanks :: Ford Ranger (http://www.thelongranger.com.au/rangerlongrangefueltank.html)

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

BCE, the V8 is a ford, so it has torque or whatever all the way... blah blah blah.
have a look at the photos of the long ranger at the out of town www.
Out Of Town 4WD - OOT4WD - Ford Ranger (http://www.oot4wd.com.au/=Ranger.asp)

which snorkel do reckon I should get - does ford do one as well? if they do then warranty should be OK. the test in one of the other mags reckons they had a prob with a bit of water in the BT and ranger. combined with the dust problem from the inner guard ford should look at improving the air intake location or maybe they agree to put a snorkel on as the best solution?

BCE,
which snorkel do reckon I should get - does ford do one as well? if they do then warranty should be OK. the test in one of the other mags reckons they had a prob with a bit of water in the BT and ranger. combined with the dust problem from the inner guard ford should look at improving the air intake location or maybe they agree to put a snorkel on as the best solution?

Crunchie,
Checkout the Thread caled 'Ranger Snorkel' started by 'dragn88'... some info and opinions there. There's really only a couple on the market for the Ranger at the moment... the TJM Airtec and the Airflow. The Safari is not out yet but their website shows a BT-50 with one. The Safari has the reputation but personally I reckon the TJM Airtec suits the vehicle better, looks-wise.

That's just my 2c worth.

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

thanks BCE

Hi, I fitted an airtec snorkel a few months ago to my crew cab Ranger XL and have no problems.
I also had to replace the air filter which was pretty dusty and it cost $ 94.00 as no=one makes an aftermarket filter yet.

been OL for a bit bce, cheers i found it anyway.

Crunchie, I have the TJM airtec and i'm very happy with it. No noise and it fits the vehicle very well. Looks to me that they make the genuine one for the BT50 anyway, Also looking at my brothers genuine Nissan snorkel on his Patrol, I reckon thats an Airtec one too. If the head on that doesn't come out of the same tool i'd be very surprised.

Crunchie, I have the TJM airtec and i'm very happy with it. No noise and it fits the vehicle very well. Looks to me that they make the genuine one for the BT50 anyway, Also looking at my brothers genuine Nissan snorkel on his Patrol, I reckon thats an Airtec one too. If the head on that doesn't come out of the same tool i'd be very surprised.

I think you are right dragn, there are many OEM and aftermarket snorkels embossed with vehicle makes (eg: BT-50, Ford, Nissan, etc) that look exactly like the Airtec so it's highly likely they are all manufactured by the same mob.

On a differnt note, I've had the AUSCUISE fitted and am very happy with it, especially the $695 (fitted) price.

I'll be getting an Airtec snorkel fitted in a couple of weeks.

Then that will be it for me for buying accessories for the Ranger for a while as I'm soon to buy a Jayco camper trailer so I can kiss the massive family dome tent goodbye.

Cheers,
BCE.

i post pic up in another section of this forum here's the linky tell me what ya think

http://www.4wdmonthly.com.au/forum/f27/romeo-2706-my-4x4-44066/

which snorkel do reckon I should get - does ford do one as well? if they do then warranty should be OK. the test in one of the other mags reckons they had a prob with a bit of water in the BT and ranger. combined with the dust problem from the inner guard ford should look at improving the air intake location or maybe they agree to put a snorkel on as the best solution?[/quote]

Gday, Does anyone know what Ford and Mazdas reply/solution was to the water entry that Crunchie metioned in the other mags test, which put both models out of the running?

nice looking truck! im quite a fan of these new rangers. nice beach pics as well. any more? beach pics or offroading?

G'day guys, just an update on my Ranger, and a question...
>>> Fitted an AusCruise cruisecontrol a few weeks ago and it's as good as an aftermarket cruise gets (fly-by-wire throttle) - very happy :-)
>>> Fitted a TJM AirTec snorkel last week and it's great too... sucks better than a $50 hooker ;-) and gives the Ranger more poke too. Looks the goods as well - I'm very happy with it :-) River crossings here I come!

Question: About to fit a Tekonsha 'Prodigy' electric brake controller to help pullup the Jayco, but for the life of me I can't decide where to fit it! If Ford had decided to dispense with the old Courier handbrake for a more car-like handbrake (in centre console rather than under dashboard) I probably would have put it there. Anyone fitted a Prodigy (or other brand brake controller) in their Ranger? And if so, where did you fit it? I have a few places in mind but I'm not 100% happy with any of them! The unit has to be visible whilst driving, accessible whilst driving, not in the way when getting in or getting of the car, and not take up precious space like in the centre compartment in the dash. Using this compartment means the nearly useless drink holders would be completely useless and I'd have to find another place for my UHF mic. Yeah, yeah, I know, I'm fussy! ;-)

Cheers,
BCE :thumb:

Got a quote from ARB for a ARB Air Locker and compressor for the rear of the Ranger - $2066. Anyone fitted one yet?

: About to fit a Tekonsha 'Prodigy' electric brake controller to help pullup the Jayco,

bce,
can't suggest anything with the elec brakes, but i was wondering what Jayco you have and are you happy with it?

bce,
can't suggest anything with the elec brakes, but i was wondering what Jayco you have and are you happy with it?

added the open sky awning to the ranger

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/th_awning3jpg3.jpg

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/th_awning2jpg2.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/th_awningjpg1.jpg

bce,
can't suggest anything with the elec brakes, but i was wondering what Jayco you have and are you happy with it?

G'day Dragn88, sorry for the delay in replying but I haven't logged on for a while, what with Christmas and all. No worries about the Prodigy elec brake controller... found a good place to fit it and very happy with the installation... just have to be a little careful when getting in the vehicle so as to not hit it with my leg. In answer to your question, I got a new 2007 Jayco 'Swan' camper trailer... it's fantastic and very, very happy with it. Aluminium frame, fibreglass body & alloy wheels so it's pretty light (1000kgs), tows like a dream and easy to reverse park. Had it fitted with a bag awning and bag flyes for the beds. Am off on a couple of trips with the kids soon so will post pics when I return. The only pic I have is of it stored under the carport. If you are interested, here is a pic of where I fitted the 'Prodigy' elec brake controller.

Cheers,
BCE.

added the open sky awning to the ranger


G'day Rogie from WA.
Nice awning! What sort of roof rack are you running there? What brand is the awning and how much may I ask?

Cheers,
BCE.

. If you are interested, here is a pic of where I fitted the 'Prodigy' elec brake controller.

So how many times have you hit it with your knee? I had the same problems finding a mounting position. I've got mine mounted on an angle on the fuse cover closer to the steering wheel which gives a bit more clearance but I still wack my knee every now and then.

So how many times have you hit it with your knee? I had the same problems finding a mounting position. I've got mine mounted on an angle on the fuse cover closer to the steering wheel which gives a bit more clearance but I still wack my knee every now and then.

G'day BT50, I've only tapped my knee 2 or 3 times so it'a not a big prob. If it gets to be a prob I'll remove the controller from its mounted position and put it in its pouch and chuck it in the glovebox... this is one of the great things about the Prodigy in that you can just unplug it and remove it from its cradle and put it away when not in use.

I thought seriously about mounting mine where you mounted yours but I just thought visibility and reachabilty were a bit better where I mounted it, and I found the fuse box lid a bit "flimsy".

I still reckon the best place to mount it would be is where the handbrake is, but obviously it can't go there.

:-)

Ok your running 30". Im running 31's and get 8 - 9kms/ltr. I'd get your pump leaned off a little or you may have a slightly blocked gauzed filter which is located on your pump.

Hi Oldfella,
did you have to do any mods to fit the 31's, I want to fit some 31x10.5 but have been told they will foul on the guards?

I got a new 2007 Jayco 'Swan' camper trailer... it's fantastic and very, very happy with it. Aluminium frame, fibreglass body & alloy wheels so it's pretty light (1000kgs), tows like a dream and easy to reverse park. Had it fitted with a bag awning and bag flyes for the beds. Am off on a couple of trips with the kids soon so will post pics when I return. The only pic I have is of it stored under the carport. If you are interested, here is a pic of where I fitted the 'Prodigy' elec brake controller.

Cheers,
BCE.

BCE the swan looks the business i'v been considering a size down, Hawk or eagle, the jayco camper range seems to be well apointed. Many happy camping trips to you.

I noticed in the picture of the brake controller there is no RFW button or have you just worn the writing off already?

G'day Rogie from WA.
Nice awning! What sort of roof rack are you running there? What brand is the awning and how much may I ask?

Cheers,
BCE.

hey sorry for the late reply,the awning is a open sky one i paid about 3.75 i think or there abouts and i think it is great i have used it heaps over summer..the rack is rhino with the basket cant thuink of the price of that at moment as im at work

hey sorry for the late reply,the awning is a open sky one i paid about 3.75 i think or there abouts and i think it is great i have used it heaps over summer..the rack is rhino with the basket cant thuink of the price of that at moment as im at work

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/P1040052.jpg?t=1200487710

hey sorry for the late reply,the awning is a open sky one i paid about 3.75 i think or there abouts and i think it is great i have used it heaps over summer..the rack is rhino with the basket cant thuink of the price of that at moment as im at work

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/tagon083.jpg?t=1200488267
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/tagon084.jpg?t=1200488302
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/tagon085.jpg?t=1200488340 (javascript:void(0);)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/tagon0813.jpg?t=1200488560


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/rogieoz/tagon0812.jpg?t=1200488597

Hi guys,
Just like to get an update on how your fuel economy is going with your rangers and bt's.
I have 2 rangers, a 2WD cab chassis and an auto 4WD XLT crew cab.
The 2WD has a large heavy canopy and gets 550 being the worst - 680 being the best to a tank, which I'm more than happy with, the crew cab however is flat out getting 450 with combined driving (no off road and more H/Way).
Now i know the 2WD didn't start showing good results until after a couple of thousand k's, but after 4,500 on the crew cab it's still not improving, and it doesn't really matter how it's driven, within reason.
The crew cab has no aftermarket accessories and is running 265/70/16's AT's, for one tank i had a set of 245/75/16 bighorns on and it still returned 430k's with city, highway and some off road, which wasn't any worse than when it had the much lighter factory AT Duelers.
I did have the 2WD booked in for an exhaust, module and cold air, but I've now decided to have those items put on the crew cab, but i really want to start seeing some better economy in standard form before i do.

Thanks in advance
Jayde

Hey Jayde,

My Ranger XL Supercab has done on average 10.62L / 100km from the 9000km or so its done since new.

My best tank to date was last week with around 500km of highway use and it managed 680km from 65L (~9.6L/100) with BP Ultimate Diesel. I am yet to see a big improvement on mileage from the BP Ultimate as my second best tank was 9.8l/100 on Gull Biodiesel (20% Bio/80% Dino), which at roughly 10-12c a litre cheaper seems better for the wallet. Only issue with the Bio is that it feels a lot more underpowered when accellerating in comparison to normal & Ultimate Diesel.

Just looking at my fuel spreadsheet and am cringing at the fact a tank used to cost ~$80 6 months ago and now is costing ~$100 for a fill :(

Around town I get on average 600-620km from a tank (light on) regardless of the diesel used.

I have just had my 6month/10 000km service so I will see if the economy improves with some fresh oil in there.

450ks seems a little low, perhaps speak to Ford about it, it may need the ECU reset.

Best of luck,

Mimmo

Hi guys,
Just like to get an update on how your fuel economy is going with your rangers and bt's.
I have 2 rangers, a 2WD cab chassis and an auto 4WD XLT crew cab.
The 2WD has a large heavy canopy and gets 550 being the worst - 680 being the best to a tank, which I'm more than happy with, the crew cab however is flat out getting 450 with combined driving (no off road and more H/Way).

G'day Jayde.

Firstly to answer your question... I've done 32,000kms now since April 2007 in my auto XLT Crew Cab and if I exclude my towing economy then my average is around 10.6lt/100km (a little higher than Ford specs say but no doubt I drive it a little harder than they would recommend).

Secondly, you are comparing apples with oranges when you compare your two Rangers economy's... I mean depending on what model 4x2 you have, it's reported economy (according to Ford) will either be 8.3 (for the 2.5lt) or 9.2lt/100km (for the 3.0lt) and your 4x4 XLT crew cab's will be 10.4;t/100km (again according to Ford). Also, depending on which 4x2 you have, it will weigh somewhere between 300-500kg less than your XLT. If you're expecting to get similar economy from your XLT as you get from your other Ranger it's never going to happen. If you are getting around 10.5 - 11.0lt/100kms in your XLT you are doing well... if you're using more than 11.5 then you probably need to ease off the right foot a bit ;-)

Cheers,
BCE.

G'day again Jayde.
Just saw your two Rangers on another thread.... NICE Rangers mate!
Nice grill work on the crew cab and nice wheels/tyres & lowering job on the single cab. Nice customising :-)

Cheers,
BCE.

Thanks for the replies guys,

Mimmo, I've heard you guys talk about bio diesel but I'm not even sure it's available here on the gold coast, i usually use bp or shell.

Bce, the 2WD does have the 2.5, and is a manual, but also weighs more than the crew cab, and a little less aerodynamic out on the h/way, plus it gets driven harder than the crew cab.
My wife does most of the k's in the crew cab and she's very light on the right foot, and I'm not much heavier, i never expected it too be better than the 2WD, but from what I've read, it should be better than it is now.
I will be taking it back to ford for a check up.

Thanks again
Jayde

Hi All,
Just got myself the new bt-50 sdx auto still stock at the moment but doing well on fuel about 580'ks from a 70lt tank only done just over 8ooo'ks hopeing the fuel side will get a little better what are you thoughts on the 4wd side of the mazda bt-50.
Cheers All
Calv.

Hi All,
Just got myself the new bt-50 sdx auto still stock at the moment but doing well on fuel about 580'ks from a 70lt tank only done just over 8ooo'ks hopeing the fuel side will get a little better what are you thoughts on the 4wd side of the mazda by-50.
Cheers All
Calv.

Hi Calv,

Haven't done too much off road, but so far it seems good, goes great on soft sand even when running on road tyre pressures.

Jayde

I think the Ranger is great offroad :thumb:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2049/1647373273_46c42c8271_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2289/1648259316_5b4ee0e0e8_o.jpg

Mimmo

Hi Mimmo,
Love the pic's gee mate your's looks newer than mine I will get some pic's on here soon. How did you go on the day enjoy yourself im itching to give mine a little to see how it goes but like they say all good things come to those who wait.
cheers
Calv.

Umm Mimmo,
You wouldn't happen to be a ford man now would you

Yes very good bet you had some fun there,
? What made you go for the ranger.

Calv.

Hey Calv,

It was pretty new when I took those pics, probably around 2000km :-) its a great spot out there with some pretty steep parts.

Not a Ford man at all, more of a Mitsubishi fan myself as I have come from an Evo background.

I went the Ranger mainly because I got the best deal on it. Few grand less than the BT-50 at the time and about $10 000 less than the Hilux and Triton. Also the suicide doors on the Ranger/BT-50 are a great feature.

I will be really happy when I crack the 700km from a Tank of fuel :-)

Mimmo

Just a quick question for those of you that judge your economy by how many kilometres you get from a "tank"... what do you actually mean by a "tank"??? When the fuel gauge needle get down to 1/4? When the fuel warning light comes on? When the needle gets to the E? When you run out of fuel on the side of the road? ;-)

Jayde (dulvari) - Remember too that the Auto is crap on fuel compared to the manual. Your wife doesn't drive the Auto crew cab with the overdrive switched off by any chance?

You say you're flat out getting 450kms out of the crew cab - FYI: In my XLT crew cab Auto I aim to get 450kms by the time the fuel gauge needle hits the 1/4 mark... this equates to around 48 litres which is an economy of around 10.5L/100kms. If you are only getting 450kms from almost a full tank (ie: 55-65lts) and your wife drives it gently and mostly on the hwy then maybe you should query Ford about it, because that would be an economy of around 12.2-14.4L/100 which aint good.

Mimmo - Nice offroad pics dude!

Calv - I'm not a Ford man either... my last car was a 260kw 5.7lt V8 Holden Calais. I was tossing between the D40 Navara and the Ranger with an initial leaning towards the Navara but Ford gave me over $7000 off whereas Nissan wouldn't budge much. I don't like the Triton shape, the Rodeo didn't doing do anything for me either and the Lux's were too exxy.

Am very happy I chose the Ranger because it's a blast to drive, has heaps of poke, gets good economy and tows my van with ease. The only thing I'd prefer is a little more room in the back seat and if the rear doors opened a little wider for better access for adults.

Bce,
k's per tank when light comes on, usually 55 ltrs when refilled.
Last tank 370k's when light came on, 54 ltrs to fill, and over half of those were on the highway 100-110.
Tried running around town with the over drive off, didn't make any difference.
Weighed the 2WD today, 2400kg's fully loaded, driven harder and i'm usually 480-500 when the needle hits a 1/4.
It's booked in tommorow for a check up, but i can see them saying there's nothing wrong.

Mimmo,
the reason why i got the ford is pretty similar to you, at the time nissan wouldn't budge on price, hilux 10,000 more, while i really liked the tritons interior, the diesel was very noisey, and mazda didn't come standard with the sports bars, ute liner, 12 volt plug in the tray and tow bar.
XLT auto crew cab-$42,160 drive away.

For me a tank of fuel is when the light comes on which is around 55-60L

However my best tank was about 40km past that point as there were no servo's around.

My rear doors swing right open ;)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1134/1211334776_873a2e8788_o.jpg

Jayde,

I have an SDX Freestyle BT50 that has done 39000kms and have just completed a trip of just under 3000k towing a 16ft caravan. My average consumption was a little under 14l/100k (55l fill at 400k most times). In other words I was getting pretty much the same fuel economy as your unladen Ranger. I also consistently get 600k out of between 55 and 60 litres of BP diesel when not towing.

Something doesn't sound right with your Ford. Maybe a visit to the dealer might be in order.

Jayde.
370k from 54lt (14.6L/100k) is definitely NOT GOOD. Like 'BT50' said, you're getting the same economy as if you were towing but you're not. I too use about 14L/100k when towing my 13 foot Jayco camper behind my Auto crew cab. When I'm not towing and even if I'm very heavy on the "fun pedal" I've never used more about 12.5L/100k.

Mimmo.
Cool suicide doors mate!

BT50.
When you're towing don't you wish the Ranger came with a bigger tank? It's not like they couldn't easily have fitted an extra 20lt down there! Can't complain about 14L/100k pulling a 16f