OK, a couple of question, I just purchased this for my son (16). It seems to be in good shape except for the tail pipe just rusted through at the muffler and fell off.
Me and my son would like to do some basic work on it (neither of us are mechanic's) we are good at taking stuff apart and putting it back together.
one thing we would like to do is replace the muffler with something would would make it a little louder maybebetter powerfor not so much money. Is this something that can be done by 2 untrained people with basic tools?? and what might you suggest we use, glass pack, mangaflow ect...
Also what would be some other fun not to difficult projects that could be done to improve the truck and his knowledge (mine too)

thanks

 

There are a lot of aftermarket cat back exhaust systems on the net. Check the reviews for install issues. Al most all are direct fit with the exception of need to cut off an inch or 2 of pipe in most cases. A good hacksaw and basic wrenches will do the job.

 

I own a '95 Ford Ranger XLT and am also working for some extra kick and style. One thing that I have done recently is changed my intake system. You can buy a cold air intake for around $200, but I'm on a stricter budget, so I'm making my own. I'll have it posted up in the next few days proboably, but a CAI is a quick and easy gas mileage/power gain. With the way Ford set up the intake system, so much power is robbed, the intake system in mine at least, was pulling from inside of the front right fender! Horribly constricting. Also, you can check if the spark plugs/spark plug wires are original. If so, replace them with some high quality plugs and wires and you should get a little better burn and more gas mileage/power. Gas treatments/oil treatments are a no brainer, just follow manufacturers instructions. The exhaust, no matter what you choose, should be very easy. Ford set it up where the exhaust is in 2 pieces after the exhaust headers, so you can easily replace either the Cat, or the muffler without having to replace the whole system. Just make sure you tighten everything back up.
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personally. before my swap, i bought a specter air cone from kragens. then i pulled the air box, pulled the MAF anp installed the specter to the stock intake hose, it worked fine for about 5000 miles, then i decided to swap. and to answer the exhaust question. i have an 05, so i unbolted the exhaust flange about 10 inches from the cat and pulled the entire muffler section out. its loud. runs fine. and its amazing.