First Explorer - Newbie

[Turkeybiscuits]

Hey All,

I just made my first explorer purchase yesterday. A 1998 Explorer Limited V8. I'll be on here with a huge lot of questions but I'll probably search the topics before I beat any dead horses. I was fortunate to get all the service records (since day 1) passed on to me with no known mechanical issues. It has 156K miles and I got it for $2000 (good deal I guess?) Last owner chucked some nice BF all-terrains on it.

I've owned 3 different mustangs over the years but this is my first Ford SUV. Hope I can reach out for assistance : ) I also welcome any tips or advice on things to check as the mileage goes up. Excited to see how other folks have liked this as I've heard some nice things about the motors on this year. I'm mechanically inclined with the exception of electrical discussions. So if you need help you can also ask me.

 

[Gadget X]

If you have the 4.0 SOHC, do you know if it has had the timing chains done? It's a know failure point, and can be costly. Nice looking ex, and I think you got a good deal on it!

 

[Turkeybiscuits]

Hey thanks for the reply MayJan- It's the 5.0 v8.

I would share that the last owner replaced the clutch fan with an electric because it was on its last leg.

Here's a list of what was done before I got it based on the paperwork I went through
New AC system
4 tires 2 months ago
Oil change/filter 1000 miles ago
Radiator, water pump, thermostat
Egr valve
Transmission fluid and filter
Ball joints and sway bar links
All new Shocks
New Spark plugs
New Distributor

I'm trying to figure out what else I can do, the vehicle will be shared with my wife I'm trying to see what else it could be due for. Brakes / rotors are in good shape as well.

 

[Gadget X]

I'm at a loss as to what else you might want to check, sounds like the previous owner really did all that for you!

 

[Mike65]

Welcome to EF. The 5.0 V-8 has been around since 1968 as a 302 & before that as a 289. It is a very good motor. The 5.0 is what is going into my 69 Mustang to replace the 302.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Was the blend door actuator ever replaced?

 

[Turkeybiscuits]

I actually would need to fiddle with that. I've had it on "Auto Temp" the past few days on 75 degrees. No clicking or weird noises. I'll blast the cold air and switch to heat to see if it gives me an issue. Thank you for the advice. : )

 

[Turkeybiscuits]

Welcome to EF. The 5.0 V-8 has been around since 1968 as a 302 & before that as a 289. It is a very good motor. The 5.0 is what is going into my 69 Mustang to replace the 302.

Thank you, I feel pretty damn good about the history with this being high(er) mileage. Now if only I can get more than 14 miles a gallon. That, I do, want to be history

 

[1Aauto]

Great looking explorer, thanks for joining
Tony:wavey: