newbie.. yeah, I know...
Anyway, I am looking for a "newer" Excursion and I've seen a couple 2004's and 05's 4x4 that I like. I will be going with the V10 b/c of the price of gas.
In your opinion, is the 05 any better than the 04? Is the gas mileage the same for both? and speaking of gas mileage, of the people that own V10's, what are you averaging?
Also, are there any "known problems" that I need to make sure of before hand? Any info you can offer, would be greatly appreciated!!
I've got a Land Rover Discovery, but it's too small for me, and I've always loved Excursions, so.. that's my story!
Thank you in advance!!

John-Robert
Here's what you should check on any Ex. You can search on any of these and find lots to read!
-Ball joints are a common source of issues on the SD platforms due to the lack of grease fitting from factory!
- brake pulsation (some call it warpage...but the I believe agreed to cause is pad material 'transfer' to the rotors causing rough surface)
- 4x4 vacuum hubs can be problematic but you can check them this way...
- Model year 2000 4R100 transmission has a diode recall
- PSD can have the CPS (cam position sensor) issue which I believe is under recall
- Sloppy steering...Ex's and SD's for that matter are prone to sloppy steering boxes...a 5 minute operation to tighten though.
<TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>- V10 spark plug torque is critical. Earlier V10's more so due to too fewer threads in the head...if the person has recently changed plugs I'd be careful as plugs have been known to be 'spit' out...an insert fixes the issue but knowing about it is key to prevent it...although '04's and '05's are much less prone to this...
-V10 Exhaust manifold studs can also snap over the many cool/heat cycles...lay your eyes on and touch each of the 40 studs...not a big deal to fix but at least you will know if there is an issue and negotiate it up front...
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
- Both Ex's have weak rear factory spring packs that can cause havoc when towing. Do a search for 'wander' or 'rear-steer' or 'RAS' or RoadMasters
That's about all I can think of from a 'common' problem standpoint...I'm sure others know more 'common' things to look out for...
Good luck,
joe.



