I'm looking for some basic info on my 2003 explorer. Stuff like what to watch for, known problem's and any tips anyone might have.

My Explorer is an eddie bauer with the 4.6ltr sohc, 5-spd automatic o/d tranny, also has the tow pkg with a 3.55 rear axle.

I would also like some info on the tranny( type, etc.) and the 3.55 rear end.

Thanks in advance.

Chris

 

I have a 2002 EB with the 4.6 V8 and 3.73 REnd. The biggest problem I had was a howling rear end between 45 - 60 mph. Ford finally replaced the entire differential assembly at 36,000. That fixed the noise. Also replaced shifters in transmission because it would shudder when it shifted. Just replaced the DPFE sensor last week when I was getting a P0401 reading. SO far so good. Now the only thing that irritates me is the engine that sounds like a diesel. Ford says it is normal. Now have 53,000 miles so guess I will put up with that for awhile. Like the V8 with exception of the noise. Don't hear it after torque converter lock up.

 

Chris -

If you've got the tow package on that '03 you have a 3.73 LS rear end, not a 3.55; as PTM526 mentioned, there have been problems with noisy clutch packs in the LS rear ends. You might want to check with your service manager to see if your '03 needed the tranny additive, and if so whether it was put in.

Steve

 

Steve, thanks for the info. I was going by my window sticker that I kept when I bought the truck new. It does have a ford factory hich but it looks like the lighter duty one. The window sticker states under options a 3.55 rear axle, hmmm now I'm confused.

 

They all have a receiver hitch, but if it doesn't have the tow package then that '03 has a Class II 1-1/4" receiver and a 4-pin electrical connector with 3.55 rear gears.

Steve

 

steve, you got it. thanks for clearing that up. i assumed since it had a hitch it had a tow package, didn't know they all came with a standard hitch. I stand corrected on the tow package statement.


Chris

 

Not to hijack but i just bought a 03 xlt v6 would i have the same rear end problems because i can hear a howling noise above 60 mph

 

Drew -

Depends - do you have the 3.73 LS or 3.55 rear gears?

Welcome to FTE!

Steve

 

Ford now installs a new clutch pack in the differential, rather than replacing the entire assembly.

And the transmission thing they did was replace the solenoid. The Mercon-V was causing a brass washer to swell making the solenoid stick and not wanting to allow for shifting. They have since reformulated their transmission fluid so this won't happen. (and introduced an additive you can put in the old formula to prevent this)

 

I have the tow package Class 3 reciever. But how could i check what gear i have?

 

As far as I know, the class 3 hitch only comes with the tow package which includes the 3.73 LS rear end.

 

ok thanks.....

 

What rear end did the 02' with the tow package come with.

 

njf207 -

The same - 3.73 LS

Steve