In two weeks my 24 is scheduled for recall work and service. It will take at least one day. Closest Ford dealer is 80 miles and they will supply a rental. I will reportt my experience.
I carry a bottle jack, a racing floor jack and best of all, a Farm jack. If you're buried or in a hole a farm jack is best. I've had two flats and never used the supplied jack.
I now own a 1990 F 250 4x4 Lariat with Lance camper. 2018 Escape Titanium 2.0 liter 4x4. 2024 Ranger FX4. Have owned 1983 Ranger 2.8 liter bought new and an 1987 Ranger 2.9 liter bought used in '94 as a work truck.
Installed the Rival transmission skid plate with the existing FX4 engine and transfer skid plates. Easy install. On my back under the truck, done in an hour. The front fit might be slighty better with the rival engine skid. Get it for the next oil change.
Around 5000 is good for my FX4. First one was at about 3500. Only once a year for my driving. I have a 2L Escape for the highway with changes at about the same interval.
I have the transmission skid plate on order from Rival for my FX. Should have it in a week. I'll post any problems I have. Somehow lost the original. Be sure all fasteners are tight after an oil change!
I bumped some rocks on a rough road which caused the transmission skid plat to detach. Should be checked after such incidents. OEM not available and Rival due in soon.