How reliable are AWD Explorers/Mountaineers

[SpeakerCity]

Hello, friends!

I'm looking to buy a 98 Mountaineer V8 AWD. The truck has low miles and is in great shape. The only thing keeping me from buying it today is the fact that it's AWD. I want to make sure these AWD transfer cases don't have a history of being problematic.

I read through a few of the threads over in the Tranny and TC board, including one where there was a debate as to whether or not removing the front drive shaft would cause problems.

I live in southern California. The weather here is as good as it gets. So I really don't have a need for better traction in snow and rain. Every once in a while, my buddies and I will drive out to the desert to shoot. That's about the extent of any potential offroading.

So what's the general consensus on the AWD? Thanks in advance.

 

[Joe Dirt]

Of all of the powerplant and drivetrain combinations available on the Explorer/Mounty, the AWD V8 is as good as it gets.

Some have issues with a viscous coupling going out in the transfer case, which is sometimes tracked to mismatched tire diameters, some have ujoint issues (wear) but all are fixed easily.

Keep in mind most people that are on the forums posting are looking for solutions to problems, not many post up how much they love their problem-free trucks.

I wouldn't be afraid of it, especially if it has no problems. I'm on my 2nd AWD now.

 

[Dan Whitaker]

I have 240k+ problem free on my '97 Mountaineer.

 

[Keeper0311]

Keep in mind most people that are on the forums posting are looking for solutions to problems, not many post up how much they love their problem-free trucks.

Put that's what gets us to love them so much, after spending so much time invested in them, you can't help but love them.

 

[SpeakerCity]

Thanks for the replies, gentlemen! I really appreciate it.

So it seems as long as I make sure the tires are rotated and balanced, I should be good. Sweet.

 

[OneLever]

...I should be good. Sweet.

And so it begins.

 

[SoNic67]

From what I saw a lot of the people that remove the front shaft are doing it because are using mismatched tires on the axels (money basically) or because they hope to get a better gas milage (doubtfull).
I also think that the Borg-Warer AWD system is as good as you can get. Also my Eddie Bower came with limited slip differential on rear and auxiliary cooler for transmission.