A 2nd gen Ford Explorer looks and feels similar to a Bronco, but with its own quirks.
But it’s got better parts and is more reliable… bring on the heat!
Jamie said:
But it’s got better parts and is more reliable… bring on the heat!
People give Ford a lot of flak, but mine’s been solid. I drove over 1000 miles recently, including some dunes, and it handled fine. Had another 1300-mile trip not too long ago. My old '98 F-150 hit 320k miles before I sold it, and the buyer got it to 350k with no issues.
@Jagger
Same here… my 87 FISO with a straight 6 was indestructible at 200K. Also had a Ford Flex—great for family trips along the East Coast. Too bad about the new Bronco’s 2.7 engine and parking gear problems. Parts delays didn’t help, making things worse. These new trucks don’t hit the same as the old ones.
@Jamie
Happy to be in the 2.3L Manual club.
Got the 2.3 but couldn’t get manual since the Everglades trim doesn’t offer it.
@Jagger
My best friend had a 90s F-150 with a 300 engine. That thing was a beast. It hauled stone and drywall daily, only the clutch gave out eventually. Sadly, it ended after a bad accident.
Ben said:
@Jagger
My best friend had a 90s F-150 with a 300 engine. That thing was a beast. It hauled stone and drywall daily, only the clutch gave out eventually. Sadly, it ended after a bad accident.
I lucked out and found a one-owner ‘94 with the 300 engine. I mostly use it for hauling, but it feels wrong to drive it empty. It thrives under load.
@Aki
It’s true, those trucks shine when hauling. Do you use it often? With small pickup prices skyrocketing, many would love one like that.
Ben said:
@Aki
It’s true, those trucks shine when hauling. Do you use it often? With small pickup prices skyrocketing, many would love one like that.
I take it out weekly, mainly for dump runs. Living in the country, it’s perfect for weekend trash hauls. Sometimes I drive it to work, but it’s a gas guzzler. Despite owning a bunch of beaters, the F150 is one I’ll keep for life. Solid truck.
@Aki
Hang onto it as long as you can.
@Aki
Found a cheap 96 F-150 with the 300 engine. As a hardcore GM fan, I’m impressed.
@Jagger
Ford in the 90s was unbeatable. Newer models? You’re likely heading straight to recall city.
Jamie said:
But it’s got better parts and is more reliable… bring on the heat!
Top comment: “super reliable”
Next comment: “I had to replace the heads three times”
I had one of these but had to replace the heads three times. Did you ever try the brown wire mod?
Hollis said:
I had one of these but had to replace the heads three times. Did you ever try the brown wire mod?
Replaced one head so far. Just heard about the brown wire mod—seems handy, especially the guide showing how to get 2Lo. Might try it.
@Jagger
Made a big difference for me, smoothed out the 4WD engagement and helped in snowy conditions. I had a 96 model; sounds like you’ve got a 97 or newer?
Honestly, cooler than a Bronco.
No leaky roof, though!
Looks like a Bronco to me.