Customized 1990 Ford Ranger Prerunner Hits Auction, Offering Off-Road Thrills

Ford Ranger (carbuzz.com)

Transforming a Classic into a Baja-Ready Beast

A modified 1990 Ford Ranger, now transformed into a Prerunner, is currently making waves on Cars & Bids. This rugged scouting truck, equipped for reconnaissance adventures, features impressive off-road enhancements, and it’s up for auction with a current bid of less than $2,000, offering a unique opportunity for off-road enthusiasts.

The Prerunner boasts F-150 Raptor-style fiberglass front and rear body clips, complemented by a custom vinyl wrap to ensure it stands out. With standard Ford F-150 headlights and taillights aligning with the overall theme, the truck also includes off-road lights, a custom front grille featuring an LED light bar, and a dual spare tire carrier mount, delivering an unmistakable off-roader aesthetic.

Underneath its visually striking exterior, this Baja-ready Ranger is fortified with reinforced front and rear chassis sections, a custom safety cage, and a Camburg Engineering long-travel free-float suspension system supported by King shocks. The 15-inch beadlock wheels, wrapped in 35-inch General Grabber tires, contribute to its terrain-conquering capabilities. Despite not being a Baja-winning Bronco Raptor or Ford F-150 Raptor R, the Prerunner certainly captures the essence of off-road prowess.

However, the Prerunner harbors a unique secret beneath its hood—a Chevrolet LS1 6.0-liter V8 engine paired with a TH350 automatic transmission. While some purists may raise an eyebrow at this powertrain choice, the LS1 generates around 300 to 340 horsepower in stock form. Additional features include an aftermarket intake system, custom exhaust, an aftermarket fuel cell, and an Art Carr shifter, ensuring a potent and reliable off-road performance.

Inside, the truck reveals a purpose-built interior with a custom aluminum dashboard and center console, Autometer gauges, aftermarket seats, 5-point PRC harnesses, and an aftermarket steering wheel. Weight-saving measures include the removal of carpets and door cards. However, the truck comes with some history, as indicated by a Carfax report showing a salvage title issued in California in 1995, followed by rebuilt titles in Nevada in 2012 and 2018. Mileage inconsistency due to an odometer replacement in 2012 and minor cosmetic imperfections are part of its storied off-road journey. Despite these factors, the Prerunner remains a thrilling opportunity for off-road enthusiasts seeking an adventurous ride.