Two problems related to front suspension leaf spring have been reported for the 1997 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rear leaf spring hangers/shackles rusted off as well as the front ones on the rear leaf springs. Spare tire carrier fell down dragging the spare tire across the road. One crossmember holding up the front of the gas tank is ready to go. Both gas tank straps rotted off. Toyota was made to fix these issues. Why not Ford? I work at a Toyota dealership replacing rotten frames on tundras, sequoias, and tacoma vehicles. There is no difference as both the frames for Toyota and Ford are built at the same factory if I am correct? the vehicle was being driven down the road all times the above listed failed. Some times on the highway, others in town. I do not feel safe selling this vehicle to another individual when it's ready to go.
Ford Ranger 1997 rear leaf spring mounts completely rusted away. Heard loud banging noise when driving. Inspected truck and found both driver and passenger rear spring mounts completely rusted away. Front spring mounts almost rusted away -near loss of rear axel and suspension !!! very dangerous failure without any warning. If had occured at hiway speed could have been total loss of rear suspension. Also dropping axel with leaf springs not good for any traffic following vehicle. Major safety problem as no other rust apparent on truck outside or elsewhere under truck. Inferrrior metal used for spring mounts which is apparently very prone to rust compared to rest of truck. Highly recommend all Ford Ranger owners be notified and advised to have spring mounts inspected before fatal accident occurs. Can not stress enough that there were no symptoms noted before failure, and no apparent rust on truck to indicate any problems.