New member, with various questions

[blackjoker]

I'll post my first thread that I put in the new members area below this new thread.

Can anyone tell me where I can buy a new keyless entry remote? Also, how to program it once received? I've found some posts on the topic, but can't remember finding the exact info for a '99 4 door, XLT, AWD. Also, where to find the keypad code, for the driver's door? I've seen the location described to be in the jack compartment for an older model, and behind a panel onthe rear passenger side for a newer model, not sure where for my '99.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, let me start by saying that I'm not really "new" to this site, but am a new member. I occasionally checked here for information regarding my Explorer. My ride is basically stock, with a few minor exceptions. I've got a 1999 Explorer XLT, 5.0L V8, AWD, with about 120,*** miles. This year I plan on completing some much needed repairs/updates.

About a year ago it was involved in a minor accident, impacting the front drivers side wheel, quarter panel and door. It was repaired, with the exception of the alignment, which is still way off. I took it to Goodyear shortly after the repair to get an alignment, and was told it needed new upper and lower control arms (not just ball joints) all around, and would total around $900+. I declined to repair, and have left it "un"aligned since (it's not driven much, just over 1000 miles since Jan. 2010). I am now financially able to complete these repairs, but plan on doing it myself. I've read a lot of the threads on here and other sources too, and it all looks fairly simple. I just have a few questions.

Since they claim I needed all new control arms, should I replace all the control arms, upper control arms & lower ball joints, or just ball joints? I've seen many demonstrations on replacing the upper control arm, and none for the lower, but I have seen the lower ball joints replaced. The uppers appeared easy, and by looking, the lowers appear to be a bit more difficult, but not impossible.

Also, while I'm in that area, I planned on replacing all of my shocks. Which leads to my next question, which shocks? I've looked at a few, Bilstein (heavy duty), Edlebrock (extreme's), or Monroe-snsa trac (are the load adjustables only for rear?). Basically I want the best possible, simple replacement, I don't want any modification like airbags or anything. I mainly use my Explorer for it's "utilitarian" purpose, pulling my boat occasionally, and large loads that we can't fit in a car.

I plan on completing these repairs immediately, as in, I'll be ordering the parts as soon as my qusetions are clarified. In the not so near future I plan on replacing the tires, I would like some nice on/off road all terrain's to fit factory wheels. Something with a nice gripping tread in case I do go a little off road, any suggestions/recommendations? I know it's a lot all at once, but any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Joel

 

[scucci]

You can get the remote on ebay cheaper than anywhere else. The procedure to program it is in the owners manual available here:
Dead Link Removed

All of the remotes must be reprogrammed.

To program the remotes:
1. Make sure that the anti-theft system is not armed or triggered.
2. Turn the ignition switch from OFF to RUN eight times within ten seconds, ending in RUN. If the RAP module has successfully entered program mode, it will lock and then unlock all doors.
3. Press any button on a keyless entry remote transmitter and the doors will lock and then unlock to confirm that each keyless entry remote transmitter has been programmed.
4. If the door locks do not respond for any keyless entry remote transmitter, wait several seconds and press the button again
5. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position, or wait up to 20 seconds after step 2, to exit program mode. If a key less entry remote transmitter has been programmed (or reprogrammed), the RAP module will lock and unlock all doors one last time to confirm
6. Note: when the first remote is programmed, all existing remotes are erased.
7. Repeat for each transmitter.


cycle the ignition key on and off 8 times within about 8 seconds or less .. keeping the key on, on the 8th time... doors should lock then unlock.. hit button on remote.. doors will lock them unlock... do this for all key fobs and shut key off when finished.. recheck to make sure all work after programming.

The RAP module is behind the drivers side rear quarter panel inside panel and is barely visible through the jack opening. There is a tag on it with the code.

You can replace the lower ball joints. Replace the upper arms. Use Moog brand or motorcraft.

Use what ever shock you like. All the brands you named are good.

Read the stickies on the 95-2001 forum for the procedures to do the work. They have a lot of information.

 

[dcdyd]

Monroe-snsa trac load adjustables are only for the rear. Depending on rusty the existing shock screw or bolts are, it may take some significant time to take them off. I spent two weekends, I believe 15 hours in total, to replace all four shocks. It was a pain process trying to get rusty screw out and I ended up broken a M12 bolts!!! But it was a very good learning process.

 

[blackjoker]

Thanks for the fast replies. Does anyone know the transmitter model information, so that I get the correct one? I don't have my old one in front of me to check, and wouldn't mind ordering them now if I have the info.

 

[scucci]

Mine are these numbers and are listed as 97-2001 compatible:
F8DB--15K601-AA
2L3T-15K601-AA

 

[shadowless127]

Thanks for the fast replies. Does anyone know the transmitter model information, so that I get the correct one? I don't have my old one in front of me to check, and wouldn't mind ordering them now if I have the info.

Any 3-button or 4-button remote with pictures NOT words will work. If you get a 4-button one, obviously the blue trunk button will not function.