Buying explorer....look for/look out for?

[jpprins]

Hi, Guys

I am very interested in the purchase of a 91-94 explorer (probably an XLT, Eddie Bauer, or Limited). I have owned a Ford Taurus, and it was the worst vehicle I ever owned...I guess I got a lemon! In order to avoid the same sort of thing this time, I'm wondering if anyone has some good places to look for common "problems" with the 4.0L V6 engine? Thanks for all the help (in advance).

Jpprins

 

[Perry]

First of all, welcome aboard. This is a great sight to look up things on Explorers. Hopefully you will find a lot of good information here.
I'm sorry you had trouble with your Taurus. I have had a couple and they have been good cars. I know the 3.8 wasn't as good as a motor as the 3.0.
Now for your Explorer. I would make sure and have the motor that is on the transfer case checked out. That is one thing I have seen people having trouble with including myself. Once you find one tell them that the front hubs sound funny and have them put on manual hubs if you are planning a lot of off roading. (Even if the old ones are good) lol
The 94 and older are easier to buy after market stuff for four wheeling if that is in your plans. We have had ours for 7 months and so far haven't had much trouble.
Good Luck.

P.S. Don't forget about the gals here too. There are a few of them that drive the Explorer's also.

 

[SteveVB]

JP

The engine is actually pretty good,

The only real mechanical concern would be the lifters- the hydraulic roller lifters are an area of concern, most have to be replaced in the 80-100k range depending on maint. and use. On startup you can hear the clicking of the bad lifter(s) its about 500 to have them replaced.

The other thing I would look for is a leaking intake gasket, out the rear, sometimes into the cylinders- again usually comes after 80k miles. The valve cover gaskets along with them( intake and cylinder head form the covers sealing rails) These can be taken care of with the lifters if they are done.

Other things on the engine ususally just sensors that go out but nothing mechanically major.

Trans- the Auto trans is an area that seems to get alot of attention. I would look for a vehicle with the super cooling option - it added a fan shroud, and most importantly an external trans cooler(look through the grill should be able to see it on the drivers side)

I dont have a manual but they dont seem to fare much better than the Autos.

Do a search of the site for high milage explorers plenty of info there.

Good Luck, let us know what you find. You have found one of the best sites for Exoplorers known IMO.

 

[Goober]

Also, if you haven't read the 'High Mileage Explorers' thread, do so. It should give you a good idea of what to expect in the miles to come.