The Ford Ranger is a popular midsize pickup truck that has been in production since the early 1980s. Over the years, the Ranger has undergone several changes and updates to keep up with the demands of the market. One of the most interesting variations of the Ranger is the dually Ranger.
A dually Ranger is a Ranger that has been modified to have dual rear wheels on each side. This modification is typically done to increase the truck’s towing capacity and stability. The dually Ranger is a popular choice for those who need to tow heavy loads regularly.
While Ford has never produced a factory dually Ranger, there are many custom shops and aftermarket companies that offer dually conversion kits for the Ranger.
These kits typically include new rear axles, wheels, and tires to accommodate the dual rear wheels. The conversion process can be expensive, but for those who need the added towing capacity, it can be well worth it.
History and Evolution of the Dually Ranger
Origins of the Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck produced by Ford Motor Company. It was introduced in 1983 as a replacement for the Ford Courier.
The Ranger was designed to compete with other compact trucks such as the Chevrolet S-10 and the Toyota Hilux. The first generation of the Ranger was produced from 1983 to 1992. It was available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
Development of Dually Conversions
The dually conversion for the Ford Ranger was not a factory option. However, there were several companies that offered dually conversion kits for the Ranger.
One of the most popular conversion kits was made by RICKA. The RICKA conversion kit could be purchased from JC Whitney. However, it is no longer offered.
Another popular dually conversion for the Ranger was made by Centurion. The Centurion Ranger was based on the Ford Econoline Cruiser van chassis. The Ranger was converted to a dually by adding a custom rear axle and fenders. The Centurion Ranger was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
In the 1990s, Toyota offered a double cab and dually option for the Hilux in other markets, but not in the USA. The little single wheel, semi-floater pickup axles started failing.
Toyota, still new in the US market, decided they didn’t want that publicity and they offered to refit anyone with a crappy wheel-adapter dually with a real full-floating, dually axle. They also stopped selling the single-wheel chassis to RV converters.
Overall, the dually conversion for the Ford Ranger was a popular modification for those who wanted a more unique and capable pickup truck. While the conversion kits are no longer available, there are still many dually Rangers on the road today.
Technical Specifications
The Ford Ranger Dually is a versatile and capable truck that offers a range of technical specifications to meet the needs of different drivers. This section will cover the engine and performance, chassis and suspension, and dually setup details of the Ford Ranger Dually.
Engine and Performance
The Ford Ranger Dually is equipped with a 2.9-liter V6 engine that is capable of producing up to 140 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive shifting. The Ranger Dually is also available with a range of different axle ratios to suit different driving conditions and applications.
Chassis and Suspension
The Ranger Dually is built on the same chassis as the Ranger pickup truck, which offers a solid and reliable foundation for the truck’s performance.
The chassis features heavy-duty components, including Dana 44 knuckles and a Dana 70 rear axle, which provide the strength and durability needed for heavy-duty applications.
The suspension system of the Ranger Dually is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even when the truck is loaded with heavy cargo.
The front suspension features independent torsion bars and shock absorbers, while the rear suspension is a leaf spring setup that is designed to handle heavy loads with ease.
Dually Setup Details
The dually setup of the Ranger Dually is designed to provide maximum stability and traction when carrying heavy loads. The truck features dual rear wheels that are spaced apart to provide a wider stance, which helps to distribute the weight of the cargo evenly across the rear axle.
The dually setup also features a heavy-duty rear axle and a reinforced frame to provide the strength and durability needed for heavy-duty applications.
Overall, the Ford Ranger Dually is a reliable and capable truck that is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers.
Its technical specifications, including the engine and performance, chassis and suspension, and dually setup details, make it a versatile and dependable truck for a variety of applications.
Design and Features
Exterior Design
The Ford Ranger Dually is a uniquely designed pickup truck that boasts an impressive exterior. The dually model features a wider rear axle with two wheels on each side, giving it a more aggressive and tough look.
The pickup bed is also wider to accommodate the dual rear wheels. The dually Ranger also features fender flares that provide a more muscular look while also protecting the vehicle from debris.
The diamond-plate running boards add to the ruggedness of the truck while also providing a convenient step for getting in and out of the vehicle.
Interior Amenities
The interior of the Ford Ranger Dually is designed to provide comfort and convenience. The air conditioning system keeps the cabin cool during hot weather, while cruise control allows for a more relaxed driving experience on long trips.
The am/fm cassette stereo provides entertainment for the driver and passengers. The power windows make it easy to adjust the windows without having to reach across the cabin.
Safety and Convenience
The Ford Ranger Dually comes with several safety and convenience features. The chrome grille guard provides protection to the front end of the vehicle in case of an impact.
The dually fender flares protect the vehicle from debris and other hazards on the road. The pickup bed is designed to carry heavy loads without compromising the safety of the driver or passengers.
Overall, the Ford Ranger Dually is a well-designed pickup truck that offers a unique look and features that are both functional and convenient.
Dually Conversion Process
Converting a Ford Ranger into a dually requires a few key components and a bit of modification to the rear axle. In this section, we will discuss the necessary components and provide a brief installation guide.
Conversion Kits and Components
There are several companies that offer dually conversion kits for the Ford Ranger, including Arrowcraft and Custom Commercial Wheel. These kits typically include rear wheel adapters, dually fender extensions, and sometimes front wheel spacers.
Rear wheel adapters are necessary to bolt the second set of wheels onto the rear axle. Dually fender extensions are required to cover the wider rear tires and provide a finished look. Front wheel spacers may be necessary to ensure proper clearance between the front and rear tires.
Installation Guide
The installation process for a dually conversion kit can vary depending on the specific components being used. However, the general process involves the following steps:
- Remove the rear wheels and tires
- Install the rear wheel adapters onto the rear axle
- Bolt the second set of wheels onto the rear wheel adapters
- Install the dually fender extensions onto the rear fenders
- Install front wheel spacers if necessary
- Reinstall the rear wheels and tires
It is important to note that the installation process may require additional modifications depending on the specific kit being used. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and seek professional assistance if needed.
Overall, converting a Ford Ranger into a dually is a relatively straightforward process with the right components and a bit of know-how. With the right parts and installation, a dually Ranger can provide increased stability and towing capacity.
Customization and Aftermarket Upgrades
The Ford Ranger Dually is a popular choice among truck enthusiasts who want to add more power, style, and versatility to their vehicle.
Customization and aftermarket upgrades allow owners to personalize their trucks to meet their specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the most popular options for upgrading a Ford Ranger Dually.
Custom Fender Options
One of the most noticeable upgrades for a Ford Ranger Dually is custom fenders. Fender design can be changed to give the truck a more aggressive look or to accommodate larger tires.
JC Whitney is a popular source for aftermarket fenders, offering a wide variety of styles and materials. Fiberglass fenders are a popular choice because they are lightweight and durable. They can also be easily painted to match the truck’s color scheme.
Performance Enhancements
Adding performance enhancements is a great way to increase the power and efficiency of a Ford Ranger Dually.
Upgrades can include exhaust systems, air intakes, and performance chips. Performance chips can help to optimize the engine’s performance by adjusting fuel injection, ignition timing, and other factors.
JC Whitney offers a wide range of performance chips for the Ford Ranger Dually, as well as other performance parts.
When it comes to upgrading a Ford Ranger Dually, there are many options to choose from. Whether you want to improve the truck’s appearance, power, or functionality, there are aftermarket parts and accessories available to meet your needs.
It is important to do your research and choose reputable sources for your upgrades, such as JC Whitney, to ensure that you are getting high-quality parts that are compatible with your vehicle.
Ownership Experience
Owning a dually Ford Ranger can be an exciting experience. Whether you use it for work or play, it’s important to take care of your vehicle to ensure it lasts for years to come. In this section, we’ll cover some important aspects of owning a dually Ford Ranger, including maintenance and common issues.
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dually Ford Ranger running smoothly. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. It’s also important to keep an eye on your vehicle’s fluids, such as coolant and transmission fluid.
One owner reported that they have owned their dually Ford Ranger for over 64k miles, and have had no major issues.
They attribute this to staying on top of regular maintenance and keeping their vehicle clean. Another important aspect of maintenance is keeping your vehicle’s electric fans in good working order. These fans help keep the engine cool and prevent overheating.
Common Issues and Solutions
While regular maintenance can help prevent many issues, there are a few common problems that dually Ford Ranger owners may encounter. One issue is with the truck’s suspension, which can become worn over time. This can cause the truck to pull to one side or become unstable.
Another issue is with the truck’s brakes, particularly the rear brakes. Some owners have reported that the rear brakes wear out quickly, which can be expensive to replace. However, there are aftermarket solutions available that can help improve the longevity of the rear brakes.
When purchasing a used dually Ford Ranger, it’s important to obtain a Carfax report to ensure that the vehicle has not been in any major accidents or sustained any significant damage. This can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Just throwing in my two cents as a mechanic – having a dually Ford Ranger can be a pretty sweet deal. You keep up with the regular TLC, fix any quirks pronto, and you’re set for years of smooth rides. It’s like a recipe for a rewarding ownership experience. Easy peasy.
In Closing
In conclusion, the Ford Ranger Dually is a versatile and practical vehicle that can be used for various purposes, including towing, hauling, and off-roading. With its powerful engine, sturdy chassis, and spacious cabin, it can handle a wide range of tasks and terrain types with ease.
While there are some challenges associated with owning and maintaining a dually truck, such as increased fuel consumption, tire wear, and parking difficulty, these can be mitigated with proper care and attention.
By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, using quality parts and accessories, and driving responsibly, owners can ensure that their dually Ranger remains in top condition for years to come.
Moreover, with the availability of aftermarket upgrades and customization options, owners can personalize their dually Ranger to suit their needs and preferences.
From suspension lifts and performance upgrades to custom paint and graphics, there are countless ways to make a dually Ranger stand out from the crowd.
Overall, the Ford Ranger Dually is a unique and capable vehicle that offers a blend of functionality, style, and performance. Whether you need a workhorse for your business or a weekend warrior for your adventures, the dually Ranger is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.
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