'97 Mountaineer 2WD -How bad did I screw up?

[429CJ-3X2]

So my son's '97 Mountaineer got totaled this week. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=403808
Today I looked at, and bought, a beautiful 123,000 mile '97 Mounty to replace it. Mistakenly thinking all Mountaineers were V-8 AWD, I didn't even consider it wasn't. As you already know, this one is 2 wheel drive (V-8).

HOW BAD DID I SCREW UP??? Ultimately my son will answer this question. He's at a major church event and hasn't seen it yet, although he did see the craigslist ad. He knew I was going to look at it, but doesn't know I bought it. This is just basic transportation, nothing more. He probably doesn't need AWD/4WD, but after driving the totaled Mountaineer this winter, and the '94 Ex with 4WD last winter, he's used to it. How capable are V-8 2 WD Mountaineers/Explorers in winter???

 

[colintrax]

My 2wd v6 explorer is very capable. The LS and good tires helps.

 

[h0und10]

I cant comment as i got awd in Duluth Minnesota and have never drivin a 2wd explorer.. but from what ive read as long as you got decent tires you should be okay. It is a limited slip i believe.. and if you really want you could always sell it and keep shopping for an awd..

 

[corkey]

or swap in the bits to make it a 4wd with a 4406 manual,

 

[429CJ-3X2]

I cant comment as i got awd in Duluth Minnesota and have never drivin a 2wd explorer.. but from what ive read as long as you got decent tires you should be okay. It is a limited slip i believe.. and if you really want you could always sell it and keep shopping for an awd..

Or swap engines with my Sport Trac!

Limited slip with the right tires would make a huge difference. Probably enough to make it work for his needs. On the test drive, I turned around in a driveway, backed out on the road, and I think both tires chirped when I nailed it. I'll have to check the axle code when I get it home. Not taking anything for granted at this point.

 

[Varsity]

I have had no complaints with my 2WD Explorer. Had it for a couple winters now and nothing bad to say even after this insane winter. As long as he is careful and exercises good judgment he should be fine.

 

[my98nnj]

Most vehicles on the road are 2wd. Good all season or winter tires and a basic understanding of how to drive in bad weather is all you need.

 

[429CJ-3X2]

I have had no complaints with my 2WD Explorer. Had it for a couple winters now and nothing bad to say even after this insane winter. As long as he is careful and exercises good judgment he should be fine.

Good to hear from someone in Chicago! I know how bad it's been there and on east. We were spared the heavy snow in central Iowa. Got a number of 2-4" snows, but nothing major.

He is careful and exercises good judgment.

And my98nnj, I've been driving in Iowa 40 years and only had 4WD the past 8 years. Not necessary, but nice to have about 14 days a year here, if that.

 

[koda2000]

I lived in the NY tri-state area for the first 48 years of my life. During that time I never had 4WD until the late eighties and almost all of my vehicles were RWD V8's. I always put snow tires on during the winter (do they still make those?) and honestly don't ever remember getting stuck, though I probably did a few times. Good judgement and winter driving skills are the key. That being said, 4WD/AWD is awesome in the snow.

 

[lobo411]

My dad had a friend in Alaska. He used to say that you could tell who was new to the state because they drove 4wd. ;-)

 

[429CJ-3X2]

Here it is - 122,980 miles. Except for the back seat carpet, the interior is just as clean as the exterior. Axle code is D4 which is 3.73 limited slip.

 

[lincolntowncar]

Mine has the one wheel wonder terrible in the snow and mud. But good deal man looks really clean

 

[Eddiemeboy]

I have a 1996 2wd V8 XLT no issues in the Minnesota winter if you use your winter driving skills. I did have a 4WD pickup for a few years, It's nice but I hardly ever used it. I'll stick with the 2WD thank you.

 

[429CJ-3X2]

But good deal man looks really clean

It's every bit as clean as it looks. The only hint of rust is on the front bumper. The couple I bought it from bought it for their teenage daughter earlier this year, but she wants something smaller. They bought it from the son of the original owners, who obviously took great care of it. The original owner rust-proofed it himself, not trusting the dealership I guess. Looks like he did it right.

This has to be one of the lowest optioned Mountaineers ever. Short console, no power seats, 2WD, AM-FM w/cassette, but no CD player. The wrecked one had everything, including the moonroof.

 

[429CJ-3X2]

Thanks to all who have responded! This is a great forum, no matter which section you're in! I really appreciate everyone's input!

 

[h0und10]

I have a 1996 2wd V8 XLT no issues in the Minnesota winter if you use your winter driving skills. I did have a 4WD pickup for a few years, It's nice but I hardly ever used it. I'll stick with the 2WD thank you.

which part of minnesota!?

 

[masospaghetti]

Wow, that is a beautiful truck! Congrats on the find!

 

[Eddiemeboy]

Chisago Lakes, is a little north of the cities.

 

[429CJ-3X2]

Wow, that is a beautiful truck! Congrats on the find!

$3300, which is very reasonable for the miles and condition around here.

 

[SoNic67]

My dad had a friend in Alaska. He used to say that you could tell who was new to the state because they drove 4wd. ;-)

Because a 4WD is actually a 2WD 99% of the time. Only an AWD really makes a difference in snow.
But if the roads are plowed regularly, 2WD is OK.
Side note: AWD doesn't help too much with ice on roads, the braking distances are equally bad