No key for 2000 Ford Ranger, dealer says Ford doesnt keep codes that long, locksmith?

Rather than change the ignition lock cylinder which would be a big problem because it is designed to be removed in the "on" position you could remove a door lock and have a locksmith or the dealer make a key replacement. You will ultimately need to dealer to program the new key for the security system anyway.

REMOVE OR DISCONNECT

CAUTION : Engine coolant may be hot. Although cooling system has been drained, coolant still remains in engine water jacket. This coolant will drain when knock sensor is removed.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Raise the vehicle.
3. Remove the splash shield.
4. Drain the cooling system.
5. Remove the knock sensor heat shield mounting bolt located under the freeze plug (or block heater if equipped).
6. Disconnect the knock sensor wiring harness connector from the knock sensor.
7. Remove the knock sensor from the engine block.

INSTALL OR CONNECT

CAUTION : Do Not apply thread sealant to sensor threads. The sensor is coated at factory and applying additional sealant will affect the sensors ability to detect detonation.

1. Install the knock sensor into the engine block.

Tighten
Knock sensor to 19 Nm (14 lb. ft.) .

2. Install the knock sensor heat shield mounting bolt located under the freeze plug (or block heater if equipped).
3. Connect the knock sensor wiring harness connector to the knock sensor.
4. Install the splash shield.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Fill the cooling system.
7. Connect the negative battery cable.

Please ignore the previous knock sensor instructions. They were posted to the wrong question. Sorry about the error