Looking at an'03 explorer
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Elder User
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 556
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From: Dixon, Il
Looking at an'03 explorer
Is there anything to watch out for in an '03 Explorer XLT with the V6? My wife and I need another family vehicle due to the growing family and want a SUV.
CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
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From: Lake Havasu City AZ
Some of the early Gen III V6s had problems (noise) with the cam chain tensioner, and some had the wrong formula tranny fluid installed at the factory (your dealer can run the VIN to see if the tranny additive was needed and put in).
If that '03 has the towing package, there have been some issues (noise) with the clutch packs in the LS rear ends that require replacement.
Check the plastic trim panel under the liftgate window; it's prone to cracking.
Steve
If that '03 has the towing package, there have been some issues (noise) with the clutch packs in the LS rear ends that require replacement.
Check the plastic trim panel under the liftgate window; it's prone to cracking.
Steve
Last edited by Steina; Jan 1, 2007 at 12:54 PM.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2005
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Originally Posted by Steina
Some of the early Gen III V6s had problems (noise) with the cam chain tensioner, and some had the wrong formula tranny fluid installed at the factory (your dealer can run the VIN to see if the tranny additive was needed and put in).
If that '03 has the towing package, there have been some issues (noise) with the clutch packs in the LS rear ends that require replacement.
Check the plastic trim panel under the liftgate window; it's prone to cracking.
Steve
If that '03 has the towing package, there have been some issues (noise) with the clutch packs in the LS rear ends that require replacement.
Check the plastic trim panel under the liftgate window; it's prone to cracking.
Steve
Still interested in an '03.Oval?
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,045
Likes: 1
45k, no real problems. Noisy rear end replaced under warranty, still unclear if it ever would have become anything more than a noise. It stll has some whine at 60 mph or so but better than before. Fine ride otherwise.
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Elder User
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 556
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From: Dixon, Il
It does have the 1.25" hitch so that isn't considered a towing package right? I would think that the towing package would only be the 2". What is the tow rating on the 1.25" hitch? Is it enough to haul a 4 place aluminum snowmobile trailer?
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CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
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From: Lake Havasu City AZ
I think the towing weight limit with that hitch is 3500#. The 2" hitch included an oil cooler for the V6, a 3.73 LS rear end, and a 7-pin connector.
Steve
Steve
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