New Guy, No Explorer... yet, are they reliable?

[senorpantalones]

Hey there, I am in dire needs of a cheap second vehicle. There are a few of the second gen explorers available in my price range locally. I was wondering what pitfalls I need to avoid and look at. Also was wondering if any of the engine/trans combos are more reliable.

I only need to get a few years out of it - so, wish me luck! And, of course any help you provide is super appreciated.

 

[Machine090767]

You post a difficult question to answer since you didn't tell us what price range you were looking for.
That can help us in determining which Gen. (1-5) your most likely to purchase and whether or not it is a solid and reliable choice or not.
Sorry, I see you were looking at 2nd gens. (I'm blind, I guess!)

 

[senorpantalones]

You post a difficult question to answer since you didn't tell us what price range you were looking for.
That can help us in determining which Gen. (1-5) your most likely to purchase and whether or not it is a solid and reliable choice or not.
Sorry, I see you were looking at 2nd gens. (I'm blind, I guess!)

No worries. I am thinking second gen because I am super broke right now. I am seeing them with 150k-ish on the clock in my price range and don't know if that is a lot for these guys. I'm looking at non-altered versions. Is there a used buying guide on here? I promise I will search the forum more when I get a little more time.

 

[RandomNerd2000]

The 2nd gens are decent, just avoid the SOHC V6 in any variant. Ideally you want a V8, but the OHV V6 is tried and true IMO. I've seen some 302 (V8) ones in the Copart listings with 396K on them.

 

[Gadget X]

Mine is a first gen, (but still the same OHV that's available on the second gen) and I've put 400,000 hard miles on it, with a new tranny being the only replacement part, other than normal wear and tear. I agree with staying away from the SOHC, I have heard a lot of horror stories about them!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! The SOHC has timing chain & tensioner issues.

 

[senorpantalones]

deleted comment- moving it to gen 2 as I'm getting more specific questions, and it seems more apropos

 

[Rick]

I agree that the SOHC motors should be avoided for their timing chain issues. The OHV V6 and the V8s are very reliable.

Welcome to the forum

 

[Mike65]

Welcome.