I've just purchased a 1993 Explorer, Automatic tranny 4 door XLT with automatic hub 4x4 and 185,000 miles. Been running great, just did an oil change and threw an additive in the fuel to help clean out the system(it had no gas cap upon purchase.) Also planning to flush both coolant and power steering fluid. Is there any other maintenance I should do with it or problems it would be worth looking into?
I have a 1994 Explorer 4 door XLR with 198,000 miles and I've had it since it was new. You will enjoy yours.
Check the plastic manifold that connects the Mass Air Flow sensor to the engine. Mine had a hole worn into it after the MAF which allowed too much air in and confused the engine management system.
Watch the motor mounts. The XLTs are bouncy enough without adding excess engine movement. I replaced mine with Ford heavy duty mounts once the factory ones started to wear.
Wheel alignment can be an issue on this model. If my alignment is properly set it lasts for years on all sorts of roads without issue, but it takes a really good 4WD alignment shop to get it right.
Leaves and dirt can collect under the windshield molding holding moisture and causing the molding bracket pins to disintegrate and the molding to loosen. My glass guy says it's OK to replace the rusted pins with windshield adhesive to secure the molding -- just follow the instructions. he says. Haven't done it yet.
The master switch module for the windows (on the driver's side door) can fail, causing problems with the other window control switches.
The rear window stays can wear and unexpectedly stop holding up the glass - quite a surprise the first time the glass bangs down on the back of your head. Be careful. The rear door strut system on some models was subject to a factory recall to be replaced with better fasteners. You should be able to use the VIN number to see if yours need to be done.
Once a month or so find a dirt or gravel road and engage the 4WD system and run it a bit. It needs to be exercised occasionally to keep everything working properly. Be sure to engage the 4x4 low range, too. Lots of parts need to move and stay lubricated. Don't engage on hard pavement or you can cause binding problems. When you shift back to 2WD, don't forget to back up far enough to allow the automatic hubs to disengage.
My Explorer is no longer a daily driver (have a 2000 Taurus for that) but I keep it because it's so handy. I am thoroughly satisfied with it -- it's been my main machine for many years on jobsites from mountain tops to the desert. It's hauled people and movie gear all over the place. If your machine had been well kept you are in for years of good service. If not, with a little effort I hope you can make it so.
