Hi:

I may be coming over from the Aerostar side. I have a 94 Aero that I am selling and am looking to buy an Explorer. Am usual, there is a lot of info on this site and thanks for all the input.

I found a '99 Explorer XLT w/ the SOHC V6 47K miles asking $7700. It is configured the way I want it (V6, 2wd. 3.55 gear). It had the cam tensioner (I don't know which one, the job order just says 'replace cam shaft chain tensioner') and intake manifold gasket replaced under warranty (29k miles) in 2002. Other than the throttle sticking on full power while testing the trans kickdown (a misplaced hose clamp - a little scary but easily remedied) it is in good shape and drives out nice and has no engine noises at cold start that I could detect.

After reading all of the postings on this site, I am inclined to avoid the SOHC altogether and look for a OHV. I am in no hurry as the Aero is still in the stable.

Is it true that once fixed, the tensioner problem can come back due to similarly poorly designed parts or did they finally get the parts right by 2002? (it had it fixed in 2002)

Does this problem manifest itself slowly or does it occur all at once?

Are there any other tests I can perform to check for this problem?

Am I being paranoid? I know there must be thousands of these out there that did not have this problem, or are they all just time bombs?

Thanks in advance for any help. These forums are great.

 

I've had two Explorers with the OHV and find that the engines are quite bullet-proof with regular maintenance (ie - oil changes). Never owned a SOHC but what I read on this forum, I would stay away from them. Though the HP is pretty low on the OHV, the torque is not too much less than the OHC. You drive torque, the dealer sells HP.

Mason

 

Go with the V8.

Explorers have had transmission ills since 1991, regardless of what trans they use. Add a trans cooler, and stay out of O/D in heavy traffic.

Usual electronic glitches..power window motors/switches. Fuel pump/senders.

I'd suggest buying the newest one you can afford, and see if it qualifies for some sort of Ford warranty.

Very expensive today to fix these electronic nightmares.