What items need to be done before long trip - 1998 Ford Explorer XLT w/ 215,000 miles

[Fantasia]

Hello,

I am new to this thread and I have an upcoming trip in my 1998 Ford Explorer XLT. I am nervous because I have never traveled long distances in this truck and it already has over 215,000 miles on it. It hasn't given me any serious trouble doing local driving but because of the mileage and the age of the truck I am worried that it will break down. I would like to know some of the key items that I should have checked and/or repaired before my trip. Any information given (positive of course,) will be appreciated.

 

[XLTrunner]

Aside from the usual routine of checking/changing fluids/filters, making sure your hoses, belt, plugs and wires are in good shape, inspecting tires, brakes and suspension components, there isn't much more that needs to be done. There is always a risk of something happening on a 22 yr old vehicle with that kind of mileage...but, IMO, perhaps the single most important suggestion I would make once underway is to not abuse it by trying to keep up with those who feel compelled to drive 10-15 mph over the speed limits. It's an older vehicle with typical drivetrain wear, so treat it as such.

 

[C420sailor]

How far are we talking? How well has the vehicle been maintained?

I’d take my 303k SOHC across the country tomorrow, if required. That said, I’ve done a ton of work to it, and I maintain it meticulously. My 120k V8 Ex is the polar opposite—I get nervous driving it down the street. Previous owner neglected the hell out of it. I’m in the middle of a very extensive mechanical overhaul that’ll bring it up to my spec.

As mentioned above, do the normal things. If anything is giving you little hints (cranking a little slow, suspension noise, vibration, etc) get it taken care of now.

 

[Turdle]

How long is your trip? Are you returning home or one way? Might be best to rent a cheap car-

Highly suggest AAA . Check credit card terms, you might be able to get cheap car rental.

 

[fast_dave]

@Fantasia

Just sayin' -

Car rental companies are currently running HUGE DEALS due to the dramatic drop in business & pleasure travel caused by the Wuhan Corona Virus.

And even before these current deals, if you rent a car for at least 7 days, the price per day drops dramatically, and most of the big agencies offer unlimited mileage.

If you choose to take your Ex, then have AAA and a Credit Card, and carry some basics such as 50/50 Coolant, a couple of quarts of oil, a funnel, some clean rags, some latex gloves, a good flash light w/ fresh batteries, a good multi-tool, and check the air pressure in your spare tire....

 

[1998Exp]

Hello,

I am new to this thread and I have an upcoming trip in my 1998 Ford Explorer XLT. I am nervous because I have never traveled long distances in this truck and it already has over 215,000 miles on it. It hasn't given me any serious trouble doing local driving but because of the mileage and the age of the truck I am worried that it will break down. I would like to know some of the key items that I should have checked and/or repaired before my trip. Any information given (positive of course,) will be appreciated.

There is a lot to worry about in a 20+ year old vehicle. Most items will not fail abruptly, but a few will, making you stranded. One is a sudden loss of coolant. Check all the hoses (including those leading to the heater core), make sure they are soft, have no cracks or bulging spots. Replace if in doubt.
Inspect the heater valve, looking for a drip or a small crack. It's plastic, and weakens with age. Even if it looks OK, may be a good idea to replace if it's the original.
Another cheap item, often neglected, is the serpentine belt. If it's more than ten years old, just replace.
How is your brake fluid doing? If the level has been dropping (not very slowly -- that's OK due to pads' wear), there is a leak somewhere. Repair before the trip.

And finally, you did not mention which engine you have. If it's the SOHC and has never been replaced or rebuilt, it's already past its expected lifetime. If you have been hearing some rattling when starting, that engine's timing components could be on their last leg and I wouldn't risk a long drive with that.

Good luck!