97 Explorer V8 AWD decent?

JonBoy

Active Member
Joined
Mar 20, 2005
Location
Hampstead NC
Just wondering if the 97 Explorer V8 AWD is any good or is this a bad combo? at 170k miles should there still be some life left in it?
 
If it were me, I'd stay away. With AWD you have all components constantly working. Those AWD's aren't cheap to fix either. Besides who wants a IFS!

Get a cheap cherokee! I found a 99 160K mile XJ for $2800. Runs great too! Solid axle is the way to go.
 
I wouldnt get an exploder with AWD they are really hard on tires and the trans and transfercase isnt reliable or easy to come by if someting happens not to mention the the binding while turning sharp at slow speed(like into a parking space) cant be good for it.
I am speaking from exp. I once owned a 97 AWD Exploder. and hated it although the 97 Explorer I had with selectable 4WD was a great vehicle as well as the 97 ranger that I have now.
the IFS(WTF) debate?????? to keep from hurting feelings I am not going to get into that!!!!!
good luck with your choice:beer:
 
At 170K miles, it's going to be a crap shoot, no matter what you buy. Damn near everything on the truck is going to be well past its design life, so 'reliability' takes on a new meaning. It might be fine, it might not.

Me? I liked the AWD. A lot.
 
Anything w/ an auto trans over 100K miles is most likely going to need some work at some point. Domestics just can't seem to get a auto tranny to last. A reliable tranny rebuild is expensive in any vehicle.
 
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