Hey All -

I'm in the market for a larger SUV and am considering a 2002, 2003 or 2004 Explorer 4x4 V6 or V8.

I was pretty excited about it until I read about timing chain issues and the need to remove the engine for the right bank/rear chain. As these used cars have around 150K or more miles, I am torn on whether or not a Ford with this engine type in particular is a wise choice.

I'd like to keep the vehicle purchase around $4K and several Explorer trims seem to fit that price....would you have concerns with the timing chain or anything else?

I read about a transmission issue where the bore gets worn out, but that doesn't concern me so much as I can fix that with the transmission still on the vehicle. Removing the engine is out of my skillset though I've done a lot of other automotive work (alternator, steering rack, ball joints, transfer case replacement, etc)

Thanks for any and all comments

 

our 2002 has about 165K miles.. I have never been worried about the motor. I change transmission oil every 40K miles because I question its life. Good oil with no CRUD inside will improve the life... I did pull the rear axle pumpkin about 150 K miles due to a whining noise that had been there for 100K miles and then got worse. I think the bearing crush was too high from the factory. Listen for rear axle whine at 60 MPH under load............. Other than that, I have replaced 3 of the 4 wheel/ hub bearings and the starter and alternator at 140-150 K miles.