Three problems related to suspension have been reported for the 1996 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My 96 Ford Ranger has tremendous frame rot on the drive side at the front of the spring shackles. Someone had sprayed rhino liner like material on the rot to cover it up or to try to make it hold. The rest of the frame is in outstanding condition except for it being almost broken into at the gas tank strap and front shackles. I have replaced every front end part on this truck thinking it was in the front suspension. When driving it runs out of line from the rear and the frame is starting to bend.
Right rear spring shackle rusted out and broke, pushing the spring up against the bed. The whole back end of the frame is rusting out, which will eventually make the vehicle unsafe to operate.
While making a turn at 25mph and with no warning consumer can hear a popping noise. It could cause future steering problems. Dealer notified.