New Expl owner Maint Q

[Chigins]

I am new to this board and just about as new to owning a Ford Explorer I bought it 11/15/06. My quetion is in reference to a first time maintenance on the 1997 Explorer XLT w/6 cyl 4.0 OHV 90,000 miles. I want to start of fresh so that I can keep a regular schedule. Below is a list of the items I think need to be serviced, however I would like to know what lubricants you folks are using. I would also like additions on any servicing area my inexpericed mind missed.

Oil and Filter Change (Best oil to use and recommended filter)
Transmission fluid and filter change (Best fluid to use and recommended filter)
Crank case fluid change (Best fluid to use)
Front and Read Differential fluid change (Best fluid to use)
Radiator flush and refill (Best fluid to use)

I am sure this list is missing many things I look forward to your responses.

 

[briwayjones]

Welcome to the forum. You ought to use all synthetic fluids. They will get you better mileage and hold up better. Amsoil, Mobil 1 and Royal Purple are probably the three synthetics you should choose from. If you use Synthetic for the motor oil you ought to run a high quality oil filter like Amsoil, K&N or Mobile 1. And run a extended oil change interval to offset the extra cost, at least 10 or 15,000 miles between changes. You would need to have your oil tested at first to make sure it's holding up well. As for anti-freeze I prefer Prestone.

Take a look at this thread. There is tons of info. on the subject.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=44372&highlight=quest