The Story of My Turbo Ranger Build: A Sleeper Truck That Packs a Punch

🚀Upgrading the 2L engine to a 2.3L turbo engine significantly improved the truck's power and performance.

🌬️The addition of a T3 turbo and a water-cooled, oil-fed center housing improved the truck's boost capabilities.

💨Installing a large intercooler and upgrading the charge tubes helped maximize the truck's power output.

🌡️Upgraded cooling components, including an aluminum radiator and flex light fan, were essential for maintaining optimal engine temperature.

🏁The Turbo Ranger performed impressively at autocross events, surpassing expectations and even outracing more powerful cars.

What engine did you upgrade to in the Turbo Ranger?

—I upgraded the original 2L engine to a 2.3L turbo engine from an 86 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe.

What modifications did you make to improve the truck's performance?

—I added a T3 turbocharger, intercooler, aluminum radiator, and a custom exhaust system to enhance the truck's power and overall performance.

Did you face any challenges during the build process?

—One challenge I encountered was with the wastegate valve, which initially didn't move properly and caused a boost pressure issue. I later replaced it and resolved the problem.

How did the Turbo Ranger perform at autocross events?

—The Turbo Ranger exceeded expectations at autocross events, surprising many by outperforming higher-powered cars like the NSX and Porsches.

Why did you sell the truck as a rolling chassis in 2007?

—In 2007, I decided to sell the truck as a rolling chassis to pursue a more family-friendly build. The drivetrain, however, was repurposed for another project.

00:08Introduction to the Turbo Ranger build from 20 years ago, featuring a 2.3L turbo engine.

01:19The decision to upgrade the original 2L engine to a more powerful 2.3L turbo engine.

04:58Modifications made to improve the truck's performance, including a T3 turbo and intercooler.

05:56Impressive performance at autocross events, surpassing higher-powered cars.

09:08Additional upgrades to the truck, such as an aluminum radiator and custom exhaust system.

12:34The decision to sell the truck as a rolling chassis in 2007, repurposing the drivetrain for another project.