Hey everyone......I know it isn't F150 related, but close enough, I hope. Anyway, I'm looking for an SUV or minivan to mainly for hauling things and to take miles off my '99 Grand Prix GT. I looked at a '99 Explorer, and it had the V6 in it, and I have to say the power was pretty good for a V6. The only thing it was missing was the sunroof.

My question is, what is the size of this engine (4liter?), horsepower, and long-term durability? It had some knocking on startup, and was shaky on idle.

Any opinions would be appreciated. Thanks and happy holidays!

 

The shaking may have been the throttle body!! Ford did a recall on the 97-99 throttle body. I had a bad problem with my wifes. When I would start it, the tach would jump and dive and shut off after about 30 seconds. We had it cleaned several times, and it would work for a while, but about 1000 miles later same thing!!
Just when I was about to complain to Ford, they sent me a recall notice about the throttle body! That was 10000 miles ago and no problems since!!
Moral to the story if you buy it insist they replace the throttle body, or show proof that it has already been done!!!

Good luck and keep us updated!!

 

Hey pasnthru ,
Welcome to the board . I am just curious about how your gonna take miles off your grand prix ? Are you gonna use your new tow vehicle to tow it around backwards ???

 

LOL!...... good one canyonslicker. That's not a bad idea. I actually forgot to mention that it would also be used as a second vehicle to drive to work, especially in the winter time so I don't have to get my "baby" out (although it provides awesome traction in the snow.) I've put almost 60,000 miles on it in 3 years.

I didn't even notice if the Exp. had the tow package on it. I'm single and don't have access to anyone's truck or something, so I figure I will need one sooner or later. The Explorer overall wasn't that bad, I mean it had a cd/cassette, and I like the one-touch fold-down rear seats that almost made for a totally flat cargo floor.

Thanks for the advice, also, Derek! But overall, is the Exp. V6 a solid engine? I haven't owned a Ford product before. (I'm only 25, so the GP is actually the first car period I've really "owned"......but I sure don't regret it )

Thanks guys!

 

Which 4.0 was it? Yes, there is two, the ohv or the sohc.
the ohv motor, although slow, is pretty decent reliaibility wise, just watch for intake leaks, which can turn into head gasket leaks sometimes.
The 4.0 sohc, decent power wise, with the 5 speed auto, isn't as lucky from what I have seen. Many have timing chain rattle on startup, which is what you might have heard. There were/are recalls and warranty extensions for that. The idle roughness is also covered by many tsb(s).
Horsepower ratings ohv 160. sohc 215.

 

I have an Aerostar with the 4.0 L OHV and it has been great. It has 240,000 Km or 150,000 miles on it. The engine has not been repaired at all except for therostats. It has the classic 4.0L valve cover oil leak but I never bothered to repair it. (too hard to get at)
It's easier to keep adding a little oil. Does not rattle at startup and runs smooth.

 

Yes the 4.0 is a pretty solid engine, I have no regrets! My wife drives it like shes on the Winston Cup Circuit, and have had only the throttle body problem!! All in all I would rate it high as a cruising motor, but it is not fast! But if your buying an Exploder...er...Explorer, your not drag racing it,( unless your my wife ) If the price is right go for it!!!

 

I've owned two V-6 4 liter engines in Rangers. Both 4x4's and both used to tow a lot. Both trucks were the best that I've ever owned. The 4 liter is down on power (160 hourse on mine) on paper, but when you put them to work they are as good as anything else out there. Very good engine IMHO....

-jeff b.

 

just as a tip, you may get more help if you visit explorerforum.com.