Buying a 96

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Jan 22, 2008 | 11:51 PM

hondo21

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From: Texas

Buying a 96

I'm looking at a 96 Explorer with a 5.0L V8, 2WD. Does anyone have any specific things I should look for on this year/model or watch out for?

Everything thats electrical works and there are no codes or check engine lights. It has 110K miles. I read where the 96-98 models with a V8 had the GT heads on them, so this should be good.

Lastly - what kind of mileage should it get 14-15 mpg?

Just looking for a reliable ride for my son, his 91 F-150 just blew the head gasket and we're gonna have to get something else quick. Sad to see that truck go!

Thanks,

Rob

Jan 23, 2008 | 12:25 AM

khadma

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From: on da beach

Fix the 91!

It will probably be just as reliable as a 96 Explorer would be. How much is the 96?
I would also look it over really carefully.
I know trannys were problematic.

Jan 23, 2008 | 12:29 AM

85e150

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Far as I've seen/heard, V8-autos were ok.

Jan 23, 2008 | 07:44 AM

mason

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Yes, no problems with the V8 transmissions just the V6s. No reason that the engine and motor can't go another 100k miles without major repair.

Mason

Jan 23, 2008 | 01:45 PM

marragtop

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From: Baltimore

You should be able to get a pretty good deal if it's a 96 with 2wd, not 4wd. I suggest running the VIN thru CARFAX to verify the mileage and look for flood or accident damages.

Jan 24, 2008 | 08:01 AM

hondo21

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From: Texas

Thanks for everyone's replies. I would fix the 91, but we've dumped so much money into it over 3 years, its time to get something else. That truck was part of the family though, so I may still keep it and work on it a little each month. Won't get much $$ for it now anyway.

I may look at a 92 Exp as welll with a 4.0L and 4WD. We had a 93 Ranger with the same set up and that baby ran like crazy!

Still, sounds like the 96 is a better way to go and it should get a little better mileage, although neither are that good.

I'll get the carfax ran too - that's a good one. The tranny shifts very well and the motor is smooth with no leaks on the ground.

Thanks!

Jan 24, 2008 | 08:08 AM

marragtop

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From: Baltimore

I'd prefer the 96 over the 92. The Gen I (91-94) are noted for transmission and radius arm bushing problems. The Gen II has a better trans and no radius arm bushings. Addionally the Gen Is had rust issues in the rear dog legs and rockers, but you can certainly visually inspect that.

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Jan 30, 2008 | 06:47 PM

hondo21

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Joined: Mar 2005

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From: Texas

Thanks everyone - I wound up buying the older Explorer. It's actually a '94 with 4.0L and 4wd. I couldn't pass it up because the previous owner took great care of it. I appreciate the tips on things to look for in this model and will take it to a dealerfor a check up.

FTE is a great site. I've used your sevice & advice for three years now on the 91 F-150 and our 93 Ranger. You've saved me a ton of money and gave us great projects to work on with my two sons.