Buying an Explorer... questions

[abigbadzebra]

Hey guys, new member here. I currently reside in NC but will be moving to Indiana soon so I want to buy a 4x4 vehicle here (where rust is usually not an issue) and take it with me.

I found a 2000 Explorer XLT w/ the 4.0, 4WD, leather, power options, 6 disc CD changer, rear climate control, etc w/ 83,000 miles on it for $5k. I was looking at Cherokees but for the price/miles, this one is looking good. Went to go see it and no rust, no dents, very clean inside and out. I'm most likely going to buy it. The seller is going out of town for a week and I won't be solidifying the deal till then.. so I wanted to check in and ask a couple questions.

First, I suspect there is a list somewhere that has been compiled that will give me some specifics to look at before buying the Explorer. A link would be awesome! I have never been to a forum with so many categories/sub-categories.

Second, the only thing that I noticed during the test drive was a squeaking noise that sounded like it was coming from the front drivers side wheel area that went away at anything over 8 or 9 MPH. If I remember correctly it sped up and got slower with vehicle speed. I honestly thought it was a bird at first... lol. It's not real loud but it can be heard with the windows up if you listen for it. Any ideas on what this could be?

Look forward to reading through the forum and learning as much as I can.

Thanks!
KD

 

[celly]

Welcome to the site. Enter "SOHC Timing Chain" into one or both of this site's search engines and decide if the truck is for you. May also try "5.0, 302, V8" into the search and you may see a better option.

Sounds like a potential good buy. I had a SOHC V6 before and it's fun to drive, if the potential weaknesses of the design have been repaired.

Happy Hunting.
Posted via Mobile Device

 

[abigbadzebra]

There is some pretty horrifying pictures associated with that search string.

I thought the 4.0 in the Explorer was the same that was in the 2002 Rangers... I was wrong (edit, I was right and my brother just told me he is getting rattles at a certain RPM range.. awesome). As nice as the Explorer I was looking at was, I'm going to have to pass. I don't need to get in knowing that something so involved is going to fail eventually.

And that's why I ask these questions.

Thanks celly!

 

[celly]

There is some pretty horrifying pictures associated with that search string.

I thought the 4.0 in the Explorer was the same that was in the 2002 Rangers... I was wrong (edit, I was right and my brother just told me he is getting rattles at a certain RPM range.. awesome). As nice as the Explorer I was looking at was, I'm going to have to pass. I don't need to get in knowing that something so involved is going to fail eventually.

And that's why I ask these questions.

Thanks celly!

Definitely try and find a V8 equipped 2nd gen (96-01) Explorer. They've got a much stronger drivetrain and much better reliability.

Glad to help.

 

[marragtop]

Also, when looking at Gen II Explorers, make sure all the climate controls work properly. Search on 'Blend Door' for more info. I also agree that you should try and avoid the SOHC in preference of the V8 AWD. Gas mileage difference is negligeable. Also, don't forget the Mountaineers as they are basically the same as the Explorers. Many of the Mounties are V8s.