Who has an '02? Need advice on buying 2002 X

[Michigander]

My family is considering buying a used 2002 Explorer, 4 door. What options have caused problems?

I think I finally convinced them to go with a V8 to stay clear on the V6 trans... but what else is there?

What should they look for/test when they are test-driving one?

 

[DesertSpive]

We have an '02 V-6 Limited with "zero" problems. We love our tranny, i think it is one of the best trannys Ford has come out with in a long time.

--Sean

 

[SaleenEXP]

definitley go with the 4.6 V8 and make sure to get the towing package and 3.73 gears. The truck hauls azz with the V8.

They handle awsome and have a nice firm yet smooth ride, kinda like an Audi.

I'm looking at 03' Mountaineers with the 4.6 V8 luxury package in Silver Frost, my mom and I and dealership spent like 6 months looking for that same truck but in Mineral Grey to no avail, I'm hooked on the Silver Frost now.

Just make sure their are no rattles. has a smooth ride, shifts smooth (which will be noticeable if any scince the new 5 speed you almost can't feel when it shifts it's so smooth), everything works fine , low miles ect.

 

[Jason_25]

Travis, to my knowledge both the V6 and V8 explorers use the same 5R55W tranny, so tranny problems should not be an issue as this tranny is "new and improved". Assuming they have finally worked the issues from the SOHC, I think a V6 2002+ would be a fine choice.

 

[DesertSpive]

Ours is 2WD w/ towing package and 3.73 w/ls. Definately a nice vehicle. The ride is a bit stiff legged, but once everything is broken in it is nice. Very european feeling in terms of tautness.

--Sean

 

[Michigander]

thatnks for the comments, although my name is Bill.... So they don't put the AXOD on the V8 anymore??? I don't think the 5r55 would handle long term under the V8...

 

[SaleenEXP]

Originally posted by DesertSpive
The ride is a bit stiff legged, but once everything is broken in it is nice. Very european feeling in terms of tautness.

--Sean

Exactly, thats why I love it, it drives/rides exactly like my neighbors Audi S4, IMO it's the best riding suv out right now, not floaty like the Trailblazer and not harsh at all, just nice and taut.

 

[SaleenEXP]

Originally posted by Michigander
I don't think the 5r55 would handle long term under the V8...

The new 5 speed is rated from Ford to handle well over 400hp and 400lb-ft of torque. KenneBell also says this as they have been pumping out more power than that with no problems on any of their Explorers or Mountaineers.

 

[Michigander]

Actually according to Ford it is rated to 550 hp (depends on torque converter though). The only reason I know this is I work for Ford as an engineer at their largest tranny plant. I didn't think the 5r55 bolted to a V8.... actually... I'll take that back... they didn't bolt to a 5.0, but they might bolt to a 4.6....

 

[Michigander]

would the V6 have problems towing?

 

[SaleenEXP]

Originally posted by Michigander
Actually according to Ford it is rated to 550 hp (depends on torque converter though). The only reason I know this is I work for Ford as an engineer at their largest tranny plant. I didn't think the 5r55 bolted to a V8.... actually... I'll take that back... they didn't bolt to a 5.0, but they might bolt to a 4.6....

thats why I said "well" over 400rwhp and 400rwtq KenneBell has already proven this along with other shops such as California Customs and Performance West.

Originally posted by Michigander
, but they might bolt to a 4.6....

That trans is bolted to the new 4.6 scince 02's came out

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

Originally posted by Michigander
would the V6 have problems towing?

Depends on how much you're going to tow with it. If you think that you are going to need the V8 for towing then get it. Otherwise I say get the V6.

 

[IAmTodd]

4.6 V8!!!! thats the best $800 or so dollars that you can put towards the x! plus towing package. Thats similar to what my parents have