gumby
Dork
2/27/17 10:02 p.m.
This truck and I have been together many years. I even sold it once, and ended up buying it back.
From humble beginnings(2002)
To the first time I turbo'd it(2003)
I chopped the top and setup for air ride with IRS in 2004-5 (SOLD in 06)
When I got it back in 2011 many things in my life had changed, but the truck was still the same. 
Already having a summer driver which was doubling as my autoX vehicle, there was only one solution. Racecar all the things.
Once those big chunks were assembled, I got my ass kicked repeatedly by the details of plumbing, wiring, finish panels, etc. Eventually, with more than one all night thrash, it was together enough to hit the last event of 2016 season.
Stats at that time:
- 2.3T making 310rwhp/340rwtq,
- T5z trans
- Modified Toyota pickup SLA front suspension
- Mix-n-match IRS; mn12, Explorer, Cobra
- 15x10 Weld wheels with used pavement sprint car front tires(24.5x11.0-15) all around
- 96" wheelbase
- 2100lbs, a bit overweight but some easy drops up front once I get to it
But first, a dyno session...
Managed 7th on RAW first time out and found that my L/S was not so limited. That went right to the top of the winter list. 
Working on a few other finishing details as well this winter and really itching to get back out! 
simon_C
New Reader
2/27/17 11:17 p.m.
Hey cool! I love me a good turbo 2.3 ford.
Man. If this isn't some good motivation for me to keep moving on my own 2.3 turbo truck, I don't know what is.. Thanks for sharing, I look forward to reading the full thread later!
That is one heck of a first post. Welcome aboard and congrats on having an awesome Ranger.
That is a kickass truck! Do you have more chassis pictures so we can appreciate your fab skills?
I was 
, then quickly moved to 
. Now I'm off to craigslist damn it.
I noticed a very nice looking t-bird in the garage as well.
Excellent! Just excellent.
Mini truck turned race truck is a cool story too. I love all the truck threads popping up lately, you guys are great motivation!
ive never been a fan of the early ranger's but damn it if that thing isn't awesome. GRM has shown me if you make any car into i big tire hot rod it can be awesome
Yes! I've heard so much about this thing terrorizing our local SCCA. Can't wait for the season to start up again so I can see it in person. Welcome to GRM, you'll fit in just fine here.
759NRNG
New Reader
2/28/17 7:51 a.m.
Awesome build and check out loosecannons' thread for possible aero mods 
gumby
Dork
2/28/17 9:08 a.m.
Good to know there are people who enjoy my insanity
I have followed loosecannon's build on a couple different forums. Aero is on the radar, but I need to get a good feel for where the truck is now and where it needs improvement before I toss even more variables in the mix.
Everytime i see a 2.3t build i miss mine! Squarebody rangers are also a weekness. Good thimg they all rusted away in ohio.
Ransom
PowerDork
2/28/17 11:33 a.m.
Well that's a heck of a thing. Nice work!
Raze
UltraDork
2/28/17 12:22 p.m.
Glad to see another 2.3T around, they're boatload of fun
Wait, that autox pic is at Walesboro! I'm really going to have to make it out more this year so I can see that thing in action. That IRS setup looks like it turned out really well.
EDIT: upon closer examination...you might live in my neighborhood. . Going to have to do some sleuthing when I get home, haha.
