Modifying AWD to be switchable on/off??

[josh_ruppert]

This may sound like a crazy question but was just curious. Is it possible to modify the set up so you can have a switch to turn on the AWD when wanted? I am referring to the 96 and on Explorer 5.0's. The reason I ask is that I am looking into purchasing an AWD 5.0 but was curious if this can be done. Thanks

 

[huskyfan23]

YOU ARE CRAZY! J/K. Search for Brown Wire Mod.

And because I'm nice and all: Dead Link Removed

 

[Cali' Explorer]

Josh, sorry to say that you can not really modify with a switch to turn it on and of. The AWD on the 5.0 Explorer's is a totally mechanical AWD T-Case that uses a full-time chain to power the front driveshaft with a clutch pack that lets it slip while you turn.

You can disconnect the front driveshaft if you want to have it drive as a 2wd.

Out of curiousity, why do you want an On/Off switch on the AWD?

 

[josh_ruppert]

I was about to write a reply regarding the first suggestion about the switch and I was about to say that it has no switch. Anyway, the reason I ask is because I plan to do some engine mods to this 5.0 when I purchase it. I have a 94 Mustang and have done engine mods to it over the past 10 yrs and currently have some sitting on the shelf. I have an E-303 cam and a set of ported and polished gt-40P's (which came off an Explorer) and a set of 24lb injectors. With this thing being AWD, I am afraid of the extra wear on the front differential.

 

[Cali' Explorer]

Ahh, ok. I would honestly say that you would be better off with the AWD with the extra power. Even though the front Diff isn't as strong as the rear, it also doesn't get 100% of the power. With the friction pack in the T-Case, it slips enough that there won't be any weird wear on the front.

If you are really worried about it, you could always swap the Diff fluid out for Synthetic to give it that extra protection, but there are plenty of guys on here with well over 100K on their AWD 5.0's without any problems. The only bad thing about it is you won't be able to do any cool burn outs unless you get an S/C or something massive on the engine .

 

[josh_ruppert]

How does your explorer run? I have a '92 4.0 with about 190k and planning on upgrading soon. What is your fuel econ? Any complaints?

 

[Cali' Explorer]

My Explorer runs great overall. The main problem I have had has been with the Exhaust System. The exhaust manifolds are known to either leak (from the gasket) or crack. Typically, if you catch it soon enough, you can just replace the gasket with a thick copper or dead soft aluminum one and it elliviates the problems. It really doesn't cause damage, just an annoying noise. Most of my problems have been related to the bunk work my local dealer did when replacing the Exhaust Manifolds (under warranty) and is not the norm for most 5.0's.

Beyond that there really hasn't been a lot of big issues for the most part.

Fuel Economy on my X is good. When I first got it I probably got about 15-18 MPG depending on how much I was on it, but that was almost all city miles. Now that I have an aftermarket exhaust that's better flowing I get about 16-17 MPG in the city and have gotten up to 21 MPG on the freeway, but I'm a major leadfoot, so you could probably do better if you kept out of the gas.

I think the only real complaint I have is with the exhaust system. There really isn't much you can do with it because of how tight things are. Only Ford has made aftermarket headers for it and they didn't make a huge difference and aren't available anymore. Some people have had custom headers made, but that's some major $$$$.

The X is a very reliable car on a whole if you do all the regular maintenance and is also a great vehicle for towing with a Tow Capacity of around 7,000 lbs. straight from the factory.

Despite all my complaints its definately a reliable vehicle overall.