1996 Xlt 4.0

[skidoofan]

Looking to purchase the above vehicle with high mileage - 175000+. I've had it checked out by a shop and things seem to be very decent shape. Only issues that are evident are as follows: 1) rear seal on transfer case - mechanic says should be very inexpensive to replace - $10 - $20 for seal, and 1/2 hour labor. 2) CEL is on, had codes checked. DTC P0133 & P0153 - 02 Sensors in Bank 1 Sensor 1 and Bank 2 Sensor 1 are CKT Slow Response. DTC P0420 - Catalyst Efficiciency Below Threshold -Bank 1.

Spoke to former owner tonight, he indicated he'd had approximately $1000 in repairs done about 1.5 years/20,000 miles ago - consisting of tuneup, fuel pump, brakes, rear shocks, and O2 sensors. He indicated he'd had intermittent issues with the CEL after and never resolved. He said it hadn't effect mileage, etc so left go.

Any suggestions on the codes that are showing up? Without knowing what sensor's were replaced - it's possible it could be these 2 that are bad?? I've also read a post where there's an issue with the above 3 codes that not neccessarily mean bad sensors??? - bad code? Can I unhook the negative cable on battery and reset if I purchase to see if it does anything or does the system need to be reset by dealer?

My only concern is that this vehicle hasn't had the transmission touched in it's lifetime. However; it seems to shift and run smoothly.

Looking for some direction on the CEL as I want to get it so the light stays off and make sure it's running optimally.

Thanks!

 

[flyguy12]

As far as the tranny is concerned, it really depends on the vehicle and its uses by the previous owner(s), but as an x owner with over 175k on it, mine sounds very similar to what you're looking at, and for having bought it with 172k miles i've been very pleased. Tranny lags a touch, but not worth rebuilding till at least 200k unless catastrophie strikes first. The only work i've done to mine since buying was a general tune up, plugs and wires, ect, and the o2 sensors and it runs like a top. Hope this helps even a little.

 

[dogfriend]

DTC P0420 - Catalyst Efficiciency Below Threshold -Bank 1.

Actually that code is indicating that the Catalyst Efficiency Test failed. The most likely explanation is that the Catalytic Converter is no longer working.

More info in this thread, scroll down to Message #12 in the thread:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=154116&highlight=p0420

 

[NHale623]

I'd be very concerned with that transmission with 175,000 miles and no service. That truck is living on borrowed time.

How much are you going to pay for this truck? Why do you want it?

 

[skidoofan]

I'm looking at spending $2500 for it - tops. It's a vehicle for my son. It's not ever pulled much of anything - 2 owners - 2nd owner put a ball on the bumper to pull a small snowmobile trailer and small boat - very limited times.

My daughter has had a car for 3 years and has put about 20,000 miles on it. If we can get 200,000 out of this without much problem - that would be great.

In regards to cat converter, if engine runs fine and fuel economy is OK, do I just ignore the light? Can the converter be by-passed to get the light to go off. We have no inspection process here so emissions is not an issue for street ready.

 

[chrisis]

if it doesn't have a rebuild transmission i don't see it going 200000 miles. i bought my 96 with 110000 miles before 1 and a half year from a ford dealer excellent condition with warranty and a rebuild transmission for $3900.00.

i would not pay more than $1500 on this explorer.if you have to fix the transmission you will have to pay at list $2000.00.

if you really like explorers look on ebay and around your area and i'm pretty sure you can get a newer model in better condition explorer for $2500-$3000.

good luck and let us know how everything goes.

 

[dogfriend]

More on the DTC codes:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=149373&highlight=p0133

No, bypassing the Catalyst won't turn off the CEL.

 

[skidoofan]

I appreciate the advice on the price. Unfortunately; I've looked pretty extensively via newspapers, dealer websites, etc. The only pricing I see cheaper is for older 92 - 94 units. Ebay is limited and not really much cheaper. Distance is a big factor there plus the fact you have no idea what you're getting for a vehicle. I tend to say that here in South Dakota where we traditionally have moderate to severe winter weather and the fact that the supply is not as great in more populated areas, the prices on vehicles are going to be higher than in other areas. Also repair prices are going to be somewhat cheaper. I spoke with a transmission shop today that gave an estimate of $1500 to $2500 depending on rebuilt or new. He indicated that removal and replacement labor is around $600 if a person could find a used transmission somewhere.

I spoke with the sales person today and made a $2000 offer. He was pretty clear that he would not sell it for that price. I'm sure I could buy it for $2500. I'll wait a day or so.