Just got me a 05 XLT, question or two

[Dradien]

First off, hello! Just got my first Explorer, a 05 XLT. Pretty sweet vehicle, does everything I ask of it, but I have two little questions about it that have been bothering me...

After driving around for a while, whenever I get out and go to the store or whatever, I notice a small pool of liquid under my vehicle. Now, since it is summer and I'm blasting the AC, I assume this to be water, so I dipped my finger in it and smelled it. No scent or anything, so I thought it to be condensation from the compressor. Anyone able to confirm this? Just want to be sure my new baby isn't leaking much fluids.

Second question...Sometimes (more often then not), when I let on the gas or let on the brake anything more then gently, the ass end thumps. Anyone have any idea what it could be? My vehicle is a 05 Explorer XLT with ActionTrac/RSC and ifi t matters any, has the MPG readout among others and 4x4 Auto/High/Low buttons by the radio. Thanks!

 

[Hitchhikingmike]

Yes, if it looks like water, it is water. AC system always drip water at a good rate under the car. Just condensation.

I don't know about your second question. If you have the auto 4x4, it could be possible that when you accelerate hard, the computer will detect traction difference between the front and back wheels, causing the computer to momentarily engage the 4x4 for better traction while accelerating. The computer engaging the 4x4 might cause the sound, but it would not engage while braking.

 

[Donner]

!. Agree

2. What kind of tires are you using? Are they all the same, with the same amount of wear?

3. Welcome!

 

[Dradien]

Thanks for the quick replays. The tires are BridgeStone Duelers (Came with the vehicle), I don't know if they should make much of a difference. Another oddity on the truck. The middle fascia on it is a carbon fiber wannabe (Obviously, It's an 05, I'm not the first owner). Since the stock CD player doesn't drive any of the right speakers (odd thing is the radio plays both), I wanna pop it off and take a look at it. I know you pry it off, is there a god location to start ot is anywhere around it ok?

Sorry for so many questions, but as my third vehicle (my third blue Ford), Im excited about it. Also love the community, as good as the only other car forum I visit.

 

[Donner]

I'd try starting at the top and work downward clockwise...

 

[dmstangu]

Second question...Sometimes (more often then not), when I let on the gas or let on the brake anything more then gently, the ass end thumps. Anyone have any idea what it could be?

I know it sounds silly, but do you have a toolbox or anything else in the trunk? It may move around and thump whenever you accelerate or decelerate...