Faults:
When I bought the Explorer, it was not working. When we checked it with my mechanic we were thinking it is a cylinder head gasket problem.
Confirmed it was a cylinder head gasket.
Radiator leakage.
Thermostat damaged.
Air filter housing assembly damaged.
Center arm rest broken.
Drivers door handle broken.
Driver's seat a lot of cracks and some portions are torn.
Radiator clutch fan a lot of cracks.
Wheel alignment caster, camber & toe going to the right a little.
4x4 and low range switch not functioning.
Auto cruise system not functioning.
General Comments:
I bought it very cheap. As an engineer I think I could make it work & run again with an expert mechanics help.
I replaced all the above things and fabricated & adopt parts that can be done except for the last two items the 4x4 & low range switch & the auto cruise system.
It is working fine right now.
The comfort is good. The reliability still needs to be tested.
Maintenance repair engineering side without the manual you'll be lost; the engine space and design to work ergonomically not suited for home garage repairs. Tools usage good - no special tools required except for door sidings I fabricated a tool to dismantle it.
Diagnosing module hard to follow and troubleshoot need more feedback from the INTERNET and other sources to accomplish.
20th Sep 2004, 11:57
I also purchased a ford explorer xlt that in my opinion I stole from the young couple selling it. I love my truck. The vehicle was from out of province and needed to be safety checked. Ford in Kamloops Canada, replaced the windshield, front right wheel bearings were gone, the vehicle was running a little rough at the time... but made it around no problems really... until about 7 months ago..i discovered that the head gasket needs replacing and as cylinder one and two are blowing air back and forth, and also something is wrong with the transmission. I understood that the couple I purchased it from had already put in a rebuilt transmission. I only paid 2,500 canadian for it so I do feel I stole the truck! Not sure about the transmission as of yet, being a single parent and disabled makes it difficult to pay for these repairs at this time.
I do miss my vehicle and am praying that it is something minor with the transmission. I will let you know. My explorer is a 1993.