looking to buy an explorer/mountaineer

[five-o-feen]

hey all, just wonderin what things i need to be looking out for that are common problems on the 5.0 AWD models. i'm looking at 96-99 models mainly w/ under 80,000 miles. I work at a garage so i know they usually arent very high maintinence trucks, and the front end will be checked of course. just lookin for some tips.


thanks, tim.

 

[Garth]

Common problems!! Rear wiper dont sweep clean, Tach connection needs cleaning, Brake light switch needs cleaning. If I can think of any thing else I will add it. Plus it feels faster than a 8second truck.

 

[five-o-feen]

well i have a 98 mountaineer sitting in the 10inch deep snow in the driveway. (no i dont own it) but i might. yeah the rear wiper sucks but the rest is fine. i am gettin a nasty shake at 60-80mph but that will help lower the price, i can warranty the tires for free an i'm near positive thats the problem. the truck is a 98 5.0 AWD a nice teal green color, tan cloth, cd/tape, rear controls, no moonroof alloys running boards, an a lot of miles 116,000 they want 7200, but i think i'd maybe take it at 6500 maybe, there are others out there nicer i think .

 

[five-o-feen]

well i took it to work today and checked it out, it needs balljoints (both lowers) coolant flush desperatly, a tire, it still has the orig shocks/fuel filter/wires/plugs so i dont think i wanna mess with this one.

on another note, i'm suprised how few responses i have got with this thread, any mustang forum would have tons of folks helpin out with good info an buying tips. well when i learn up i guess i'll do that round here. thanks to Garth for the tips!

 

[Garth]

I was thinking that with 116,000. it should be less than the price they are asking. I still have my original shocks on and it was this year that I changed the coolant for the first time. Also my wires and plugs are the original too.
I hope you find a truck that suits you soon.

 

[five-o-feen]

the salesman asked me to make an offer, and i said i really couldnt decide what i'd pay for it if i wanted it, he offered 6125 or something and i said i'd think on it. i have been offered a job at a GM dealer and they have offered to find me one at an auction but i am not sure if i wanna go that route. an damn i need a vehicle

 

[Garth]

I had(Still do)89 Mustang GT before I got the Explorer and I must say that I did not want anything but the 5.0 in the truck. We know how bullet proof the engine is.

When I was buying the Mustang the guy tried to sell me a Camaro and boy it was a big difference. I just never like how how they felt and sound on the inside.

The old Jimmys'/blazers had a cut off speed at about 85mph and was too narrow like the 4runnner. The newer ones with the 275horses I hear is crap(I did not confirm this)the engines arent all that its made up to be.

I guess if you are going to get a deal on a GM then you should take it. I hope you'll get used to it.

For $6,000 and he fix all the problems sounds just about right.

 

[five-o-feen]

no i wouldnt get a GM vehicle even if I worked at the dealer, i meant pick up a mountaineer or x at an auction. if i baught it for 6 they arent fixing it i am. no biggie i can get it all done for a fraction of the cost. but i think i might hold out an see what else is out there. i kinda want leather an the moonroof.