My headgasket went out on my 1992 Explorer for the second time in 3 months so I was wondering how the 5.0 are in the 1996-2000 Explorer. I found the second generartion Explorers are very affordable.

5.0 is the only way to go. The benefits out-weigh the cons by a longshot.

^^Most def! I plan on throwing in a 5.0, ZF5 5 speed trans, and a BW1356 in a couple of years(that makes it sound so easy huh? :p), once my motor and/or trans goes out...and at the rate it's been going they've both got a good amount of time left to go. :thumbsup: Which means I've got some time to possibly stroke the 5.0 to maybe a 330 and maybe I'll win the lottery and get an Atlas? :D :p

Does the AWD work as well as the high and low 4x4.

I use the AWD on deep, very loose beach sand, and I have no trouble whatsoever. I air down of course. Better than my 96 Bronco, and the 02 F250 I had. No low range, but I havent even approached getting stuck.

Does the AWD work as well as the high and low 4x4.

I'd say it works the same as 4HI.. but no where near 4LO. But for the average Explorer driver.. the V8 is the way to go. :cool: :D

The 5.0 comes with the 4r70w tranny behind it which is regarded as a lot more reliable than the trannys behind the 6's.

And a very good package for towing.

If you do true 4 wheeling then the 4 wheel lo is a good thing to have. AWD is mostly on road / light offroad.

5.0 is the only way to go. The benefits out-weigh the cons by a longshot.

That about sums it up. It just feels more solid than the 4.0 ever did. AWD works well for normal driving. Nice when trying to jump out onto a road off of gravel :p

Before you junk it out I would give this a try. http://www.rxauto.com/
I havent personally tryed it but I know of a person who swears by it.

Thanks for all the replies