Hi all. I've been looking for an Explorer (2nd gen--I just like the looks better) for a couple months. I've been lurking around the forums for a bit and have learned more than I ever wanted to know 
Before I get long-winded, let me throw a question out there for you experts. I see the 5R55 is known for problems, and it seems it usually involves a VB rebuild (feel free to correct me on anything, of course). My mother has a '98 Sport in great shape except it has just started the 2-3 flare literally two weeks ago. It flares intermittently, mostly during the first 10-15 minutes after sitting all night; when warm, all is well. If you turn off overdrive, however, the flare is gone even when cold. The fluid is a tad dirty (but still looks red) and doesn't smell burnt and no varnish, so I'm hoping a change or three will clear up the issue. (Yes, I'm an optimist!
) It was last changed around 75-80k, IIRC.
It has 97k on it and it is otherwise in great shape (save a few minor things like the radio display). Perfect body, solid engine, not even a stain on the carpet. She offered to sell it to me as is with a deduction for the tranny issue, but also doesn't want to rip me off (or anyone else). In other words, is it already too late or can the flare by corrected easily and inexpensively this early on?
I know the history of the truck, and I usually drive it weekly so I know how it rides and behaves other than the "new" flare. I'd jump at the idea if not for this. This would become my daily driver, so I want/need reliability. What do you all think?
Before I get long-winded, let me throw a question out there for you experts. I see the 5R55 is known for problems, and it seems it usually involves a VB rebuild (feel free to correct me on anything, of course). My mother has a '98 Sport in great shape except it has just started the 2-3 flare literally two weeks ago. It flares intermittently, mostly during the first 10-15 minutes after sitting all night; when warm, all is well. If you turn off overdrive, however, the flare is gone even when cold. The fluid is a tad dirty (but still looks red) and doesn't smell burnt and no varnish, so I'm hoping a change or three will clear up the issue. (Yes, I'm an optimist!
) It was last changed around 75-80k, IIRC.It has 97k on it and it is otherwise in great shape (save a few minor things like the radio display). Perfect body, solid engine, not even a stain on the carpet. She offered to sell it to me as is with a deduction for the tranny issue, but also doesn't want to rip me off (or anyone else). In other words, is it already too late or can the flare by corrected easily and inexpensively this early on?
I know the history of the truck, and I usually drive it weekly so I know how it rides and behaves other than the "new" flare. I'd jump at the idea if not for this. This would become my daily driver, so I want/need reliability. What do you all think?
