Distinguishing a ‘02 Ranger from XLT or FX4?

[RonD]

So someone bought a 2002 FX4 Off-Road, then paid extra for automatic and electric transfer case, which would be standard on XLT, just so they could get 4 better shocks and better rear axle??

PT Barnum was RIGHT

 

[gw33gp]

I am not sure you had to pay extra for an automatic 02 FX4. If so, it was not much more. I do know it was much less difficult to find an 02 FX4 with an automatic than it was with a manual. I went through that search and experience it myself.

There was a bit more to a FX4 than just better shocks and rear axle. They also had the Alcoa wheels with 31" BFG AT tires, stainless steel front tow hooks with a tow hook in the rear, skid plates and more durable seats. It was much more capable off-road from the factory than a standard XLT. Sure you could build the same thing yourself from a XLT but I doubt you could save money doing it. Plus you would spend a lot of time working on it rather than being out doing what it was meant to do. Mine has served me well and is still providing my off-road fun at 242K miles. It has been upgraded a little through that years though.

I will add my assurance to the OP that the Ranger in questions is truly an authentic FX4. Either that or someone went to a lot of trouble and expense to imitate one.

 

[turbo91xlt]

I personally see alot more '02 FX4/'03+ Lvl IIs with automatic transmission then 5 speed manuals here in the northeast.

 

[fixizin]

Why, oh WHY won't Duh Parts Gods deliver a manual '02 FX4 or '03 FX4 Level II to mah local U-Pick JY??

I personally see alot more '02 FX4/'03+ Lvl IIs with automatic transmission then 5 speed manuals here in the northeast.

You're just trying to make me cry... won't work... it's just my allergies, really...

 

[Neil Teske]

Or you can just look up your VIN code and it'll tell you what it is and where it was born

 

[Neil Teske]

Or you can just look up your VIN code and it'll tell you what it is and where it was born

I had a 91 that was a split year I had to know what plant it was made in the wheelbase what month of the year was born in order to buy parts