Newbie with questions?
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Freshman User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
From: Lansing, MI
Newbie with questions?
I want to buy an older SUV (IE: 1995 Ford bronco) for general use and a backup vehicle. I basically want something I can drive on-road, some off-road and manage in the snow.
I want an older vehicle so if I dented it I'm not going to get pissed. I have developed some spec's like large V8, auto trans, no repair work, no super custom work. I also want to keep cost within $5000 +/- a few hundred
I have also a list of options that I might pay more for, bumper winch, roll bar, towing package, larger tires.
I live in Phoenix but plan to move to Michigan (The wifes idea) and think a AZ vehicle will be in better overall condition than a MI vehicle?
I have been to autotrader.com and found a number of vheicles but have questions maybe some of you folks can help with
1. What is a 4R70 auto trans? Isit better or worse than a "Standard" trans?
2. I'm familiar with the 351 ford engine, from an old Mustang I owed. Is this a good engine or is the 302 better?
3. How can I have the vehicle I pick looked at to check it's condition?
4. Any other comments would be appreciated
Thanks
I want an older vehicle so if I dented it I'm not going to get pissed. I have developed some spec's like large V8, auto trans, no repair work, no super custom work. I also want to keep cost within $5000 +/- a few hundred
I have also a list of options that I might pay more for, bumper winch, roll bar, towing package, larger tires.
I live in Phoenix but plan to move to Michigan (The wifes idea) and think a AZ vehicle will be in better overall condition than a MI vehicle?
I have been to autotrader.com and found a number of vheicles but have questions maybe some of you folks can help with
1. What is a 4R70 auto trans? Isit better or worse than a "Standard" trans?
2. I'm familiar with the 351 ford engine, from an old Mustang I owed. Is this a good engine or is the 302 better?
3. How can I have the vehicle I pick looked at to check it's condition?
4. Any other comments would be appreciated
Thanks
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 337
Likes: 0
From: Bashaw, Alberta
I can't really help you on the tranny because I have never heard of it, but I could probably help you on the other questions. It depends on what year you have but essentially the 351 is a good engine. The 351 W is very close to the 302 and depending on the years you may have a 351 C or M. The M and C have big block bellhousing patterns so you could get a 460 if wanted. The W has the smallblock bellhousing pattern.
For checking look for the obvious things like oil leaks and loose you joints. You can have a friend that is fairly mechanically inclined to come with you to help you out on your inspection. Make sure that the transfer case works properly when engaged and that no mounts are busted. Also check to make sure the u joints are tight and not sloppy and worn out.
Hope this helps you out and Welcome to FTE
For checking look for the obvious things like oil leaks and loose you joints. You can have a friend that is fairly mechanically inclined to come with you to help you out on your inspection. Make sure that the transfer case works properly when engaged and that no mounts are busted. Also check to make sure the u joints are tight and not sloppy and worn out.
Hope this helps you out and Welcome to FTE
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,546
Likes: 46
From: Kemmerer, Wyoming
If I remember correctly, my '97 Explorer 4X4 I used to have w/ a 4.0 SOHC V-6 had a 4R70 trans. Good tranny, but I believe it's only available w/ a V-6.
To answer your engine question, it depends. On the fullsize Broncos (1978 and up) most people are happier with a 351. IF you snag an earlier smaller Bronco (my recommendation) a 302 will suffice just fine.
To answer your engine question, it depends. On the fullsize Broncos (1978 and up) most people are happier with a 351. IF you snag an earlier smaller Bronco (my recommendation) a 302 will suffice just fine.
