problems to look for in a 97 xlt v8

[dwade277]

I just picked up a 97 explore xlt v8 with 77000 miles for 8000. I thought it was a good deal so I bought it. This is my first Ford and I hope it`s a good one. I wanted the v8 because I have read some reviews saying that the SOHC v6 may have some recall problems.
Anyway, are there any problems I should look out for or any tips anyone can give me to keep my new Ford running long and strong.

 

[Lemondrop]

Only thing Ive seen so far is the throttle sticking shut from carbon build up on my X . Just have to clean the throttle body every few months and it works fine .
Do yourself a favor and go through the truck and service all the fluids and filters . When you get something used , you never know how someone else serviced it so it's best to start fresh and new with the service .
Biggest problem Ive seen with V-8 Explorers is the exhaust manifold/ header gaskets like to blow out and leak . My buddy bought the expensive copper gaskets for his and has not had a problem since . Might have helped he installed a Borola cat-back also .
I think it's stupid Ford did the exhaust single instead of dual .
Next mod for my 5.0 is a custom bent dual system with 3 chamber flowmasters . I can't wait to hear my X sound like a Mustang

 

[RTStork]

Originally posted by Lemondrop
Next mod for my 5.0 is a custom bent dual system with 3 chamber flowmasters . I can't wait to hear my X sound like a Mustang

I'd go with the 2-chambers then. The 3-chambers are barely louder than stock.

 

[RTStork]

Originally posted by dwade277
any tips anyone can give me to keep my new Ford running long and strong.

I would change the hoses, coolant, plugs, wires, and fuel filter. If it doesn't leak oil, I would consider switching to synthetic. I would also look into getting a dual exhaust and some sort of air induction kit like the KKM or the Dead Link Removed. These things will free up some horsepower and mpg. I gained 2.5mpg and some extra power too. I plan to follow it up with a Diablo chip soon.

 

[Stephen]

Ditto everything listed here.

Just wanted to congratulate you on your purchase, my 97 Limited has 103,000 miles and its still running strong. Another problem you may want to watch for however is worn ball joints, mine has at least one on the driver's side that needs replacement.

 

[Lemondrop]

Originally posted by RTStork


I'd go with the 2-chambers then. The 3-chambers are barely louder than stock.

Ive got 2 chambers on my Mustang .... my wife would flip out if I tried em on the X

 

[leenjen]

nice choice. the V8 is a strong engine and comes with a strong transmission. just keep up on the regular maint. and it'll last forever.

 

[RTStork]

Originally posted by Stephen
Ditto everything listed here. Just wanted to congratulate you on your purchase, my 97 Limited has 103,000 miles and its still running strong. Another problem you may want to watch for however is worn ball joints, mine has at least one on the driver's side that needs replacement.

What are some symptoms to look for to tell a bad ball joint?

 

[Stephen]

Creaking/Popping while going over bumps/steering. You'd feel it in the floorboards and through the steering wheel. IAlso may cause some wander on the road, the front generally feels looser than it should. 'm sure thats what the problem with our Explorer is, just havent had the time to get it in the shop.