New Explorer Owner HERE! Few maintenance Questions.

[jordansypek]

How is everyone doing, I just purchased a 1998 XLT 5.0 AWD. I am fimiliar with Ford Vehicles, I currently have a 1996 4.6 Cougar Project car, which I will be modifying heavily since I have an Explorer now for daily use. I had a few questions in regards to the explorer. I have been a Die Hard Ford fan for as long as I've owned them. This is my first Explorer, so bear with the questions.

I plan on flushing the tranny, I am going to put Ford Mercon 5 in there, I was wondering if anyone knew how many quarts the entire trans will take with the cooler for the AWD. I know a 96 4r70w with my transmission cooler on my Cougar takes 13 Qts.

Front and Rear Gear Oil change, I want to change it to fully synthetic fluid, any recomendations on Viscosity or additives, also if anyone knows the fluid capacities, that would be most helpful.

On the AWD I was wondering about the fluid in the transfer case also. Any info would be appreciated, Fluid/Amount.

I plan on towing a 3800 Pound car with my Explorer, I know it is Rated at 6700 for towing, (I believe, got it off a website while I was doing a little homework) does anyone else tow, can you share your experiences?

I plan on doing simple bolt-ons as far as engine modifications go. Probably just throw a K&N on there, and underdrive pulleys, I will be doing more exterior modifications than anything else.

TIA to anyone that can help me out with this info, I will be around the forums, thanks again.

Jordan
http://www.tccoa.com

 

[Alec]

1) The X 4R70W is basically the same as your other one, the cooler may add a qt.

2) Even though it's expensive I used Ford synthetic gear lube in my diff and never had a problem. Considering you don't change that fluid very often I don't see the expense as a problem. I believe it was 75/140? I also put in a bottle of the Ford friction additive, you probably have the factory LS so throw that in too.

3) Unless the RPMs are too high, it's better to keep out of OD when towing, especially if the tranny is hunting or you're going up or down grade. Also, even though you already have a factory aux tranny cooler, upgrading to one with a fan, a larger one, or adding a second one can't hurt.

4) don't go with UD pullies, especially if you're towing. I'd get a KKM or MAC intake and custom catback exhaust. Maybe a chip with a tow program, Apten is great! www.apten-us.com

BTW, welcome and good luck, and don't hesitate to use the search feature!

 

[jordansypek]

ahhh yes the Search Feature Thanks for the info.

 

[BradE.]

Jordan,

I'd buy 14 quarts of Meron V ATF. That way, you will have some extra on hand for topping off as needed. If you have an extra filter kit from the Cougar, it will work in the Explorer just fine.

Welcome to the forum.

 

[Thunderterd]

Jordan!!


Drop me a PM here or over at TCCoA


Glad to see anothe MN12 buying another Ford!

 

[Rodeo Joe]

Oh my God!

This is too much, be still my aching heart! No excuse for not getting together now! Glad to see you guys here! I need to check these other forums more often!

Joe

 

[MikeTEC]

If tongue weight is a problem, consider Hellwig progressive helper leafs, rear air bags, or a weight distribution hitch with integral sway control.

The WDH option is slightly more expensive, but will distribute the hitch weight evenly to all the trailer's and vehicle's wheels/tires. Both vehicle and trailer will then function together as one unit. Safety will be greatly enhanced!

Finally, check state laws and see if trailer brakes are required. Pesonally, I would not pull that much weight without trailer brakes. This will require wiring a 7 pin plug and brake controller.

Sure these things will cost a little more but will be worth it. Good luck!- Mike