Just bought 02 XLS

[dcarnut1]

So I just Bought a 2002 Explorer XLS 4x4 with the 4.0 SOHC. I have heard many bad things about this vehicle but couldn't pass on the deal, I paid $250.00. So what should I or do I need to know about this vehicle? Here is what I do know about it,
Odometer does not work, I was told it has around 94,000 miles on it. I will be investigating the solder connections tomorrow.
4 wheel drive does not work. Possibly a relay?
Windshield Gasket leaks.
OBD II Code P0174, found vacuum leak at intake manifold tonight, will replace gaskets.

This is the first Explorer I have owned, but I am a lifetime Ford Man!

Thanks for any help or suggestions.

 

[sfhess]

There is no "Gasket" for the windshield. It is glued into place.

 

[Slade]

expect to change all of the wheel bearings. get a good brand. the cheaper shop brand don't seem to hold up well, its worth the money up front to not have to change them three or four times.

check your rear struts, the springs tend to break. i had broken springs on three of the four corners.

be aware that ford had an issue with putting bad ring gears into the rear diffs and they tend to howl if you have an open rear end. i don't believe the limited slip models had the issue.

the automatic transmission (5r55) is a sealed box. difficult to service yourself without specific equipment (fittings and fluid pump etc...) and expensive to have serviced by dealership. the transmissions also have a tendency to need a rebuild some time near or after 65k. mine went to 180k but ran me 2800 to have done.

timing chains are not an easy fix. expect to probably yank the engine out and spend a couple bucks.

little to no aftermarket off road support

at some point you will see a "door ajar" dummy light on the dash. pita door sensor. do a search...

for more good news do a search, those are just some of the issues that come to mind quickly.

 

[dcarnut1]

So the odometer is fixed, the vacuum leak is fixed. Passed Inspection and emissions today. Now to tackle the 4 wheel drive issue. Also got a airbag code 33, played with the wiring harness under drivers seat, light is off. I suspect it is a bad connection or a short.

At what mileage would I need to address the timing chain issue?
What is the issue with the wheel bearings typically, excessive wear, heat? Are the bearings sealed or packable?

 

[Slade]

sealed bearings. timing chains...when you start to hear the "timing tick" (usually at cold start) the clock is ticking.

 

[Derekbrue]

I too just bought an 02 xls, with 95k. Runs great (after minor tune- up). This might sound like I'm being a smart-@$$, but I assure you I mean no such thing. I thought my 4wd (specifically 4x4 low) wasn't working, but I didn't know the vehicle had to be stopped , in neutral, with the ebrake set to shift into 4x4 low. Let the jokes begin, but hopefully some help. As far as the intake leak, you can try spraying some carb cleaner around the manifold with the straw attached, then you can at least pin point an area of concern. Good Luck, and I hope our exploder experience goes well,
Derek