Dual mass flywheel/clutch set ups are an issue in that class of vehicle, they don't handle towing/load very well and before anybody says thrashing causes it, then it's not that simple I have seen two destroyed clutches from same Ranger in less than 50,000km, the first let go on a pensioner towing a caravan around Australia the second was my best mate that bought one with 33,000km on clock had it for a about 3 weeks hooked up camper trailer one weekend and started to slip on way home we also know the history of the vehicle and it was also not thrashed.
And read multiple story's, yes mainly on forums but also a letter of complaint ( by another retiree ) that was published in the Motoring Section of the Sunday Times here in WA stating his clutch packed it in at around 30,000km's as well !
They produce awesome power and are a lot of fun especially on the beach but for what ever reason and I am not a mechnik or ginger beer but they just don't seem to be up to the task.
Besides that I think they are a great ute.
But your best to google and ask around ( like you are doing) and make up your own opinion but remember clutches are not covered by warranty because its usually deemed as "fair wear and tear" but I believe that if a vehicle in this day and age can't survive on its factory fitted clutch to say 100,000km or length of the warranty then it's clearly not suited to the application and should be covered and replaced, period !
