Newly acquired Explorer issues

[Psmyth]

Hello all,

Just bought a 1997 Explorer and I love it but it's been a little unloved previously if you know what I mean. A few things are occurring and any help would be brilliant!

1. The servo makes a creaking noise sometimes when braking and the brake pedal kicks back. I guess it's the abs kicking in but what might cause it.

2. The 4x4 and low range lights flash intermittently

3. The suspension detection system light says it is off even when it's on but the light only comes on after about 20 mins of driving.

4. The engine makes a skittering noise when in idle - I can't hear it when I'm driving unless at a slow speed.

Any help with any of the above greatly appreciated!

 

[Jonsocal]

One possibility...

Your brakes: you may want to take off your wheel and check the studs holding on your break caliper. I have read that this version of Explorers have a problem with those studs occasionally backing out. It's definitely worth a check. As for your sensors regarding your four-wheel-drive you may want to open the dash and check the connection at the switch. Good luck!

 

[Winniethepooh]

regarding the flashing 4x4/low: it's worth to check EVERY fuse in the box under the hood and at the side of the dashboard. I recently had this issue and the cause was fuse 25 (7.5A) in the fuse box at the dash. Bad contact. Keep in mind, that the description of fuses in the manual is crap, I've experienced several times. In my '99 fuse 25 should be for GEM, anti theft, but it was for 4x4..... using a contact cleaner isn't a bad idea