Quote:
Originally Posted by Borrego Dave
How'd the new chariot work out compared to the old Ranger?
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My 2001 Ranger was a great truck and thoroughly modern in its time.
I loved driving it and it did a great job towing my Scamp.
Time has passed, and this new Ranger makes my 2001 seem like an antique, a competent antique, but an antique none the less!
On the old truck, every improvement required a compromise ...
Ride Vs Handling, Payload Vs Comfort, etc.
I was very happy with it for 18+ years.
Here is a post which I wrote for another site.....
I just got back from a 1200 mile trip towing my Scamp13D,
Trailer 2000 pounds,
Payload +- 800 pounds.
Average highway speed 63MPH
(STX Supercab 2WD)
HOLY CRAP!! This truck is AMAZING!
I am virtually speechless, but I will try...
1] Comfort.
Excellent for both driver and passenger.
Driver position proved easily adjustable for all day comfort.
Controls proved easily accessible and quickly responsive.
Quiet even in traffic or high winds and rain.
2]Performance...
Acceleration was as if the truck was empty with no trailer.
Stability was absolute in all conditions.
Cruise control never moved from the setting, even in high winds or steep hills.
Creeping in inner-city traffic was smooth.
Passing at highway speeds was smooth strong and quiet.
Brakes were smooth and perfectly responsive in all conditions.
3]Handling...
Precise and predictable in all conditions from winding roads to pouring rain.
Speed seemed to have no effect on handling.
Apexing an unexpected curve felt like an IT car on track.
Emergency lane changes or nearly missed turns felt routine.
Backing the trailer was precise and direct.
This trip encountered some of the worst traffic and weather conditions,
and I never even had a single white knuckle moment.
4] Visibility...
Visibility was great all around no blind surprises from passing , cross, or oncoming traffic
Backing the trailer was clear down both sides and in the camera.
5] Efficiency...
Low to mid-twenties on first tier fuel with no real evidence of octane making any difference.
I could hardly notice the transmission shift, except for the tach and activating gear graphic.
My only minor complaint was that the bare skin of my forearms and elbows became uncomfortable resting on the vinyl of the armrests on the console and the door.
I laid a T-shirt rag down and solved the problem completely,
I expect to wear sleeves on future long trips.