Going to buy Explorer...want advice

[bluesman]

Howdy Folks,

Great board!!!

My wife and I are looking to buy our first Explorer. We're looking at '95-'99 for an on-road, no-trailering, flat terrain family wagon. She wants leather and I want CD. I will go without mods unless I can do them at about 2am.

My question is about the engines in this year range. If I understand correctly, the standard V6 has decent giddyup off the line, but wheezes at passing speeds. The SOHC V6 option seems to have fixed this. I wouldn't rule out a V8 for the right price, but don't want to pay extra for it if I don't really need it. Is this information correct? Is there a way to check the ID sticker to tell which of the two V6 engines is in the Ex? Any pros and cons of the different engines?

Thanks in advance for any help. I look forward to joining the club.

 

[rkj082000]

Only 97 + explorers have the SOHC V6, you can tell by opening the hood it says SOHC on the engine itself. Definately has much more pep than the regular V6, not positive but I think the SOHC has 205 HP. I haven't driven the V8, but from what others have said is that it's worth the V8 if you plan on towing, otherwise stay with the SOHC 6, gas mileage is better, and you are not giving up much HP. just my .02

 

[Alec]

The OHV (base V6) should be fine for your needs. The SOHC V6 does have more power, but make sure if you get a 97 or 98 that all the recalls have been performed. The first 2 or 3 years of the SOHC had quite a few problems fixed by recalls and TSBs.

If you can find one though, the 5.0 V8 and tranny package is the best drivetrain. You can have either 2wd or AWD with the V8.