Hello friends I own a 1994 B2300 , 2.3 liter 4 cylinder. I bought it with 42,000 miles on it. It now has 82,000 miles on it. I love it. I have only had to tune it up once, and I am religious about changing the oil every 2,000 to 2,500 miles. One question though: obviously the vehicle lacks power, but sometimes when I am pushing it on the highway, like trying to climb a bit doing 55, I hear a flutter coming from the engine as I depress the accelerator to compensate for the hill or whatever. Almost sounds like a diesel engine at times. What is it, and what might happen? It doesn't affect the overall performance of the vehicle; it's simply a weird fluttering sound.
What's the general feeling out there on the value of using snows? I use Cooper Weathermasters, with Studs, on my Ford/Mazda Ranger. I really feel like they make a difference during the sometimes harsh New England Winters. Any comments, suggestions, opinions? Should I try a set on my new Honda Civic hatchback this winter, or stick with the factory installed all weather tires?
Wanted to ask "Sushi" a bit more about happiness w/B2500 but having trouble w/e-mail address for "Sushi." Anyone out there want to comment about about '99 B2500 5 speed, especially gas mileage? I'm looking at buying one w/extended cab, 2WD. Will appreciate your input. I have an '86 B2000 that I have enjoyed. Thanks! Lisa
Has anyone heard about 1999 Ford Ranger 3.0 FFV engine that doesn't use conventional motor oil? Apparently, the dealers i've talked to said it cost $9.00 a qt. I'm not sure if it's a scam but i don't see the manual stating anything different. Appreciate any info.
It looks to me as if the B-series doesn't offer the sport bucket seats with the center console like the Ranger. This is information I have gathered from the brochure. Is it true? I have read in an article that the sport buckets on the Ranger are more comfy than the bench seat because of the manual lumbar support. Anyone got any feedback on this?
I was disapointed at seeing this at the dealer too-the lack of. Maybe they're thinking that 3 people can fit in the front with this 60/40 split or whatever they call it. Yeah right. I'm short and never wanted to have a passenger suffer by being jammed up close, so the bucket seats were great. Guess I better look at a Ranger?
Yes, I beleive that's what the bench seats are for...to fit three up front. I suppose you could fit three, however, I don't really want someone crammed up next to me while I'm driving. I also like the placement of the cupholders better on the center console that is offered with the buckets. This may seem nitpicky, but I don't want to have to be reaching under the dash to get my drink while I'm driving and that's just about where the cupholders are if you get the bench seat.
I am considering buying a 94 Mazda B2300 extended cab. Can someone tell me if the engine is a Ford or a Mazda engine. From what I have read so far, I guess I should hope for a Mazda engine. Any other info about the truck is also appreciated.
The Ranger and the B-series are basically the same truck. There are just minor variations in the sheetmetal......and options as you can see from my previous posts. The trucks are a mixture of American and foriegn parts.
I SWEAR BY THE BENCH SEAT. If my 2300 did not have a bench seat, I would not have bought the truck. The lumbar support offered by my bench seat is FAR better than the bucket seats that Ford/Mazda have offered in the past. The way those buckets are designed, your lower back essentially slouches into them - and on long trips that is really uncomfortable. Chiropractors make tons of cash from all of the folks out there who need spinal adjustments from slouching in their poorly designed bucket seats. The backrest of the Ford/Mazda bench seat makes NO EFFORT WHATSOEVER to 'curl' inwards like a bucket; in fact, there is a tad more padding at the bottom of the backrest than at the top - which is exactly where you want it for lumbar support. Had anyone out there ever had to buy a lumbar pillow for their bucket seat, for extra back support? THE BENCH SEAT RULES!!!!!!
I remember reading a review somewhere that rated the bucket seats of the Ranger more comfy due to the fact that they have a manual LUMBAR SUPPORT where the bench seats offered do not.
maybe the brand new ones do, but i'll never forget a buddy of mine who has a '94 ranger with buckets......he sat in the bench of my '94 b2300 and wished he had bought that one instead.
you don't need manual lumbar supports on the bench seat; there's no room for improvement - they rule!
..one more thing..... I don't know if Ford or Mazda offers cloth bench seats; I only have experience with my vinyl one. I can sit up straight much easier in it; my back doesn't curl, and there is enough padding to keep it from doing so. Good Luck.
I just brought home my new '99 B2500SE extended cab-4 w/convenience package (tilt, cruise, bedliner, etc)and to my surprise, it really isn't a bench seat in the sense that it's 1 long piece. It is divided 40/60, so the driver & passenger can be at different distances from the dash. Hallelujah! I'm 4'11" and I was not wanting to make passengers suffer. This was a joy to see. (I hadn't looked at this that closely when I test drove) So far, I love this truck. My '86 B2000 had a good life, but time to move on. I chose the littlest engine for fuel economy and I'll keep you posted when I get some feel for what the numbers are. Didn't want the 4 door, but already can see the benefit of easy access. If you are wanting certain color combos and features, the pickings are getting slim-at least in the western states. Only 2 of what I wanted: Oregon & Tucson, AZ. I'm in Phoenix. Mazda headquarters told me 2000 trucks will be out late Oct/early Nov.
I recently bought a regular cab '99 mazda B2500 SE. I love that truck. Although, I have a complaint. I was involved in a rollover wreck last week, that totalled my truck. My brother and I were able to walk away uninjured from the accident, which I am thankful for, but I don't understand how a 2 wheel drive truck can rollover on flat ground, at 25mph, so easily. Just a warning to you other mazda owners.
Oh my, at 25 mph? What in the world happened? My sister had 2 accidents in Ford Rangers that should have been fatal, but she walked away fine. In one, it rolled over and went upside down, down a canal for many yards. ( I wasn't there-don't know how far exactly) The vehicle was totalled but she was fine, and my family swore by the Rangers for this reason. sooooo, I was thinking I'd be fairly safe in my new Mazda. Not too stable in turns, or accelerating from a stop or? Would appreciate you expounding upon your incident, if you don't mind. Still watching my gas mileage to report back. Have only had this B2500 SE extended cab, 5 speed, 4 door 1 week + 1 day. So far, so good. Can't say I ever knew what my '86 B2000 5 speed 4 cyl got in city, but on trips, 27-30 mpg. Hope this one can get that, but doesn't look too promising from others' posts.
I was just wondering if you loyal customers of old Mazda trucks(japenese version) are buying the new ones thinking they are still Mazda. Why don't you get the Ford? I had a 87B2000 and it was the most reliable truck I ever owned. When it was time to get a new truck I was not impressed by the Ford with a Mazda name plate. Don't get me wrong, the Ford is a OK Truck, but I don't think it will go 180k miles with no problems at all like my 87 did. I had the original clutch and water pump! I bet the person who bought it still hasen't had a problem. How is everyone liking the new Mazda? Are they holding up. Just curious.
I bought a 99 B2500SE standard cab 5 speed at the end of April--now have about 3,600 miles on it, and have gotten between 19 and 22 MPG on every tank. Mostly rural highways with towns at each end, so not exactly freeway mileage but close. Experience with other cars and trucks I've owned suggests that a straight freeway trip would probably yield 23-25 mpg.
To danbodan: I bought the Mazda because the rebate was a lot bigger than the one on the Ranger, and so I could get one with power windows, locks, a tach, and a CD player, + the convenience group (liner, tilt, cruise, slider) for the same price as an el-strippo Ranger. Our other car is an Explorer, so I'm not against Fords.
I owned '82 and '88 B pickups,and an '88 323, and they were the paragon of quality and durability. I bought a '94 B4000, and dumped it after 18 mos. Since then, the dreadful Twin-I Beam has been replaced, but the thirsty Ford Cologne V6 is still there. I use Chevy pickups now on our farm. What I'd really like is the new Thai-built Mazda Bravo B-series 2.5TD! Check out Mazda's Australian site to see what the import tax is depriving us of.
I own a 90 B2200. It had no power, no access doors, little to recommend it. I bought and have driven the dogs---- out of it. It has performed great. I have no problems taking it off road, even though it is only a 2 WD. It has been to 3 countries and numerous states, dragging me, my junk and my pets around as I traversed the international military roadways. I recently put new back brakes on it, and probably need a clutch, but at 140k, who can fault these little things. But I wanted something newer...Looked at SUVs, too yuppy and expensive for the hardware. Looked at big trucks but I drive a lot and mileage sucks. Looked at Dodge, Chevy, Ford and Toyota. Fell in love with an Amazon Green, Troy Lee edition, B3000. I got the 4X2, 4 door Cab Plus, auto (regretably), with air, CD and bedliner (TL pkg). I paid $17,5 with a $1500 rebate. I got it at a good price, didn't haggle them down as much I as could have. They still have 4 on the lot, so I stood on their last price, then got them to THROW IN vent visors, front bra, and side nerf bars. I will buy the Brush Guard myself, didn't like the one they used.
So, go to your local Mazda dealer and see these. I am in Delaware/PA border area.
I will update as soon as I take possession. You can't tell a lot at 14 miles.
I'm into my 3rd week w/my new B2500SE x-cab, 5-speed, 4 door 2WD and loving it so far. (To the person who posted from Tucson, AZ, mine came from Tucson to Phoenix, as I wanted the little engine w/the convenience package)In town mileage in Phoenix, which has some freeway but mostly stop and start and downshift and stop and go (eck) is looking to be around 21 mpg. I can't complain. Was worried it would be worse than that. On a trip I expect better. (MY old '86 got nearly 30 mpg on road and the 20-22 in town, so this one is comparable) I didn't want the 4 door but that's what was available and I'm SO GLAD I got it. I don't know how I lived w/o x-cab and 4 doors before. Briefcase, golf clubs, groceries-you name it. In a couple days I was in love with that feature. No complaints except I'm having to get nerf bars, being so short and I kinda slide out of it and will ruin the seat! It's taller than the old B2000! And for those who want to keep asking why we buy little trucks rather than cars or big trucks-some of us like 'em! Not too big, and bigger than cars, which feel like an ant on the road.
Agree with you...love the B3000 with 4 doors... only 89 miles on it from 14 but it is great so far...Definitely have to get nerfs, too, and I am adding a brush guard and rear light guards...screwed my lights up on my last one. Lights are EXPENSIVE...
I have found a 96 B4000 LE X-Cab at a local dealer. They have had it since July, lowered the price significantly since then and it only has 21,148 miles on it. It has every option imaginable, auto trans, power pkg, towing pkg, bedcap etc. At $11,495 does anyone think I should snap it up? It seems to drive well and has plenty of power.
Does anyone know if Mazda will offer a long-bed version? I've got a long-bed 1985 Ranger and would like to buy another long-bed. Ford makes 'em so obviously Mazda could, in theory, offer one too.
I used to own a GLC, a terrific car. I wouldn't mind a Mazda pickup at all--but I need that longer bed!
I said no and walked out of a dealership yesterday trying to sell me a 99 B3000 Cab Plus with 4 door, AC and AT, for $16,400 out the door (after rebate). Their price included a $434 charge for "paperwork" which I refused to pay. Any comments on whether or not this was still a decent price?
What are the guards needed for? Is yours a 4x4;do you go offroad? If there's a weak spot,even on in-town roads, I'm appreciative to know. Are the light guards the metal wirey things? Is the brush guard up under the front end? I know, I know... may be a dumb question to some of you, but I never had those things on my '86, which sat lower, so do I need these on the '99? Thanks!
The dealership accepted my offer (over the phone)of $16,100 for the aforementioned B3000 and refused to honor the price one hour later. I finally coughed up the $16,400 (tax, tag, everything, after ebate of $1500) because my daughter was counting on the truck. Tell all your friends to NEVER buy from Cory Fairbanks Mazda in Longwood, FL! Although to their credit, several employees apologized for their manager's dishonesty.
I got my quote through an auto buying service and watch out: the dealership said it is common practice to add a fee for "administrative paperwork" for internet deals. Theirs was $424!
I paid $16.716, out the door, in Austin Tx. The following items were on the invoice: 1 Automatic, 2 Convenience pkg, 3 dlr advertising, 4 transportation and of course the base...$19255 retail sticker. I'm happy with the deal...the truck is another story.
Positive = good looks, handles great, decent interior.
Negative = Pathetic engine..noisy..dangerously weak power curve, flat spots durring acceleration, terrible mileage, unpredictable shift points, and rough cruise.
And, first recall on the cruise control before the first payment. I think they new about this when I took delivery but they would let this mandatory safety fix stop the deal.
Dealer confirmed many complaints about performance, but no help from Mazda. This is really a ford with madza logo's
About 10k mi on mine and I will never buy another one. Anyone want a good deal on a used one ?
Just visiting this room. I am an owner of a 1998 Ford Ranger 4x4 XLT 4.0 5spd with a 3.73 limited slip rearend, offroad pkg and tow pkg. I also added some real tires, the tires both Ford and Mazda put on are a complete joke. Get yourself some 31" all terrain or some P265x75R16 right away if you go offroad like I do. I notice some complaints about power. I improved my Rangers throttle response by adding a K&N air charger kit along with a Superchip. These items cost about $500 combined. One draw back of the chip is you have to run super unleaded. Now, don't expect gut renching, whiplash like response if you add these items. You will notice the engine runs smoother and there is a difference in throttle response. I also notice those who bash Ford for taking away the Mazda truck. Truth is the Mazda trucks were on their last leg anyway due to the severe competition from Nissan/Toyota. Mazda didn't have the cash to keep up with the introduction of V6 engines from both Toyota/Nissan. The 3.0 is no lacky either, it boasts 150hp/192ft/lbs of torque, the 4.0 has 160hp/225ft/lbs of torque. Don't, mate the 2.5 or 3.0 with an automatic, Big mistake. Do mate the 2.5 and 3.0 with the 5spd. Much better engine control and response. Mazda B-Series and Ranger are the best value, best compact trucks on the market today. Just an FYI, I use my 4x4 as an offroad vehicle. I fish, hike, boat in the Northwest. This is my second Ranger, first went to 96K with no problems. My present one has 20K and no problems either. The Mazda/Ranger can get you where you want to go.
As for the 3.0 with the automatic, I find that it runs pretty well. I have rented a 4x2 and 4x4 with the 3.0L/Auto and I find the acceleration and engine response to be pretty good.
I have an '91 B2200 (yes it is an oldie) it has recently started to smoke when I crank up but stops as soon as the engine is warmed up (4 to 5 miles). Does anyone have a similar issue with the older models and what is the fix? Thanks.
This sounds like the valve guide seals are leaking. I had a 1983 Ford Ranger with 2.0l 4cyl 4spd which displayed this problem. I never got it fixed, just retired it at 109k miles, when it failed inspection for smoke. By that time I was bored with this gutless truck.
Can't stand the dinky 14" wheels that come stock and would like to upgrade to 15" wheels and a 235/75R15. Will this tire fit without interference on the 96 model or will I have to raise the front end a little? Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
Just purchased a used B4000 ExCab auto with 3.55 gears and am suprised how poor the mileage is. I have been averaging about 16.5 in town and only about 18 on the road. Is this normal for this truck or something wrong. The previous owner added a K&N air filter and aftermarket exhaust to increase the mileage and it still seems to be poor.
I have a 99 b3000 with 6400 miles. My gas mileage has been avg at 16 mpg. I even had the dealership do a consumption test because I felt it was so bad. Overall no problems but the lack of power and mpg are issues. The truck has no squeaks or rattles and overall is well built. But the gas mileage is terrible. KNG offers what is advertised as a great air filter, I will look at that.
Since you have a B3000, I'm guessing you have the 3.0L V6. This engine doesn't break in until around 10,000 miles. At that point, you should get an extra 3-4 mpg.
I own a 96 B2300 with 40,000 miles that I bought new on 11/96. Gas mileage is great (26-28 mpg highway). Ever since the truck was new, it has always made a noise that sounds like it has no oil in the engine for the first few seconds when you crank it up after it has been stopped for more than 8-10 hours. The noise is louder when you don't drive it for more than 2-3 days. It sounds just like the engine components are not getting lubricated quick enough. The dealer already replaced the lifters and now recommends replacing the rod bearings. Oil pressure is always to specs. once the noise goes away. Dealer says the noise is normal in the 2.3 litre engines. Any ideas? Any of you experiencing this noise?
WTORRES, 40K miles and new lifters and now rod bearings recommended? Is this under warranty? Have you documented previous trips to the dealer regarding this problem?? If so, and it's out of warranty you might be able to argue them into making the repairs under warranty. Since it's a 96 I would start looking into another vehicle. Who needs this continuing hassle. Their recommendation may not solve the "problem". My .02, and good luck.
The only reason I let them replaced the lifters was because it was under warranty. I still have another month under the original factory warranty and that's why I'm pushing now to get it fixed. What bothers me is that you can only hear the noise as the RPMs climb once the engine starts. After that, the noise goes away. It is also hard to duplicate since you have to wait at least 8 hours before it will do it again (my guess, that's how long it takes for all oil to go down to the oil pan). Thanks for the advise.
I don't know how some of you guys are getting 21-22 mpg w/a 4.0 I've got a 99 Ranger XLT SC with 4.0 and manual. I average 15.5 It has 2000 miles. I hope it gets better!
Have 1999 B2500 5sp ext. cab w/ 4drs. Mileage combined city and highway is always 20-22mpg. 6000 miles so far. Does slow down some with air on going up hill. Beena great truck so far. Back 1st day for oil leak because factory did not install both bolts on oil sending unit. Since then no problems.
Comments
I own a 1994 B2300 , 2.3 liter 4 cylinder.
I bought it with 42,000 miles on it. It now has 82,000 miles on it. I love it. I have only had to tune it up once, and I am religious about changing the oil every 2,000 to 2,500 miles. One question though: obviously the vehicle lacks power, but sometimes when I am pushing it on the highway, like trying to climb a bit doing 55, I hear a flutter coming from the engine as I depress the accelerator to compensate for the hill or whatever. Almost sounds like a diesel engine at times. What is it, and what might happen? It doesn't affect the overall performance of the vehicle; it's simply a weird fluttering sound.
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you don't need manual lumbar supports on the bench seat; there's no room for improvement - they rule!
Skip
I don't know if Ford or Mazda offers cloth bench seats; I only have experience with my vinyl one.
I can sit up straight much easier in it; my back doesn't curl, and there is enough padding to keep it from doing so.
Good Luck.
My gas mileage has been in the 20-22 range, and I actually achieved 24 on a really long highway haul.
Still watching my gas mileage to report back. Have only had this B2500 SE extended cab, 5 speed, 4 door 1 week + 1 day. So far, so good. Can't say I ever knew what my '86 B2000 5 speed 4 cyl got in city, but on trips, 27-30 mpg. Hope this one can get that, but doesn't look too promising from others' posts.
To danbodan: I bought the Mazda because the rebate was a lot bigger than the one on the Ranger, and so I could get one with power windows, locks, a tach, and a CD player, + the convenience group (liner, tilt, cruise, slider) for the same price as an el-strippo Ranger. Our other car is an Explorer, so I'm not against Fords.
I recently put new back brakes on it, and probably need a clutch, but at 140k, who can fault these little things.
But I wanted something newer...Looked at SUVs, too yuppy and expensive for the hardware. Looked at big trucks but I drive a lot and mileage sucks. Looked at Dodge, Chevy, Ford and Toyota.
Fell in love with an Amazon Green, Troy Lee edition, B3000. I got the 4X2, 4 door Cab Plus, auto (regretably), with air, CD and bedliner (TL pkg). I paid $17,5 with a $1500 rebate. I got it at a good price, didn't haggle them down as much I as could have. They still have 4 on the lot, so I stood on their last price, then got them to THROW IN vent visors, front bra, and side nerf bars. I will buy the Brush Guard myself, didn't like the one they used.
So, go to your local Mazda dealer and see these.
I am in Delaware/PA border area.
I will update as soon as I take possession. You can't tell a lot at 14 miles.
At $11,495 does anyone think I should snap it up?
It seems to drive well and has plenty of power.
I used to own a GLC, a terrific car. I wouldn't mind a Mazda pickup at all--but I need that longer bed!
Thanks,
Dan
I got my quote through an auto buying service and watch out: the dealership said it is common practice to add a fee for "administrative paperwork" for internet deals. Theirs was $424!
I'm happy with the deal...the truck is another story.
Positive = good looks, handles great, decent interior.
Negative = Pathetic engine..noisy..dangerously weak power curve, flat spots durring acceleration, terrible mileage, unpredictable shift points, and rough cruise.
And, first recall on the cruise control before the first payment. I think they new about this when I took delivery but they would let this mandatory safety fix stop the deal.
Dealer confirmed many complaints about performance, but no help from Mazda. This is really a ford with madza logo's
About 10k mi on mine and I will never buy another one.
Anyone want a good deal on a used one ?
I'm considering buying a '99 B2500SE Pickup. Who makes the 2.5 liter engine, Mazda? How about the 5 speed manual trans?
I assume the 3.0 L is Ford's. (I read that the 4.0 L is of German Manufacture).
Thanx,
Dean
I notice some complaints about power. I improved my Rangers throttle response by adding a K&N air charger kit along with a Superchip. These items cost about $500 combined. One draw back of the chip is you have to run super unleaded. Now, don't expect gut renching, whiplash like response if you add these items. You will notice the engine runs smoother and there is a difference in throttle response.
I also notice those who bash Ford for taking away the Mazda truck. Truth is the Mazda trucks were on their last leg anyway due to the severe competition from Nissan/Toyota. Mazda didn't have the cash to keep up with the introduction of V6 engines from both Toyota/Nissan. The 3.0 is no lacky either, it boasts 150hp/192ft/lbs of torque, the 4.0 has 160hp/225ft/lbs of torque.
Don't, mate the 2.5 or 3.0 with an automatic, Big mistake.
Do mate the 2.5 and 3.0 with the 5spd. Much better engine control and response.
Mazda B-Series and Ranger are the best value, best compact trucks on the market today.
Just an FYI, I use my 4x4 as an offroad vehicle. I fish, hike, boat in the Northwest. This is my second Ranger, first went to 96K with no problems. My present one has 20K and no problems either. The Mazda/Ranger can get you where you want to go.
As for the 3.0 with the automatic, I find that it runs pretty well. I have rented a 4x2 and 4x4 with the 3.0L/Auto and I find the acceleration and engine response to be pretty good.
- The Merg
I had a 1983 Ford Ranger with 2.0l 4cyl 4spd which displayed this problem. I never got it fixed, just retired it at 109k miles, when it failed inspection for smoke.
By that time I was bored with this gutless truck.
I have a 4.0 5spd and I get about 21-22 on the Hwy.
Overall no problems but the lack of power and mpg are issues. The truck has no squeaks or rattles
and overall is well built. But the gas mileage is terrible.
KNG offers what is advertised as a great air filter, I will look at that.
Since you have a B3000, I'm guessing you have the 3.0L V6. This engine doesn't break in until around 10,000 miles. At that point, you should get an extra 3-4 mpg.
HTH,
The Merg
Willie/Rock Hill/SC
40K miles and new lifters and now rod bearings recommended? Is this under warranty? Have you documented previous trips to the dealer regarding this problem?? If so, and it's out of warranty you might be able to argue them into making the repairs under warranty. Since it's a 96 I would start looking into another vehicle. Who needs this continuing hassle. Their recommendation may not solve the "problem". My .02, and good luck.
JLOCO