One problem related to axle hubs has been reported for the 1998 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Front wheel drive intermittent even when 4x4 light is on and 4x4 switch is engaged. Most notable when below outside temperatures are 30 degrees fahrenheit and below. Multiple Ford dealers have tried but cannot duplicate condition. This condition is increasing in frequency and has created some dangerous driving situations due to lack of traction when driver thought 4wd system was engaged.