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Comments
I just can't wait for the 2002!
I am looking at a new exhaust system and was wondering if anyone had any input in regards to a new muffler. I will probably keep the same tube size for better torque. Most importantly I want to increase the hp and mpg with minimal noise increase. I don't want my exploder sounding like my 68 firebird! I have been looking at Gibson and vortex. Magnaflow and flowmaster too loud. Any input, experience or web site comparisons would be great.
I've read a number of reviews on the new Explorer and it sounds like they've improved it quite a bit. I'm really looking forward to the 4-wheel independent suspension, and my wife is looking forward to the increased cargo room and third row seat. I sat in the third row at the Detroit Auto Show and it actually is fairly roomy (I'm 6'3"). I wouldn't want to sit back there for long periods of time, but it should be fine for smaller people or kids.
KlKrause,
Where should I look to find this Forum?
My wife has narrowed her new car search down to two.
The 2002 Limited Explorer is one of them.
I would like to find out more about the 2002 Explorers ride, handling and ease of operation with the V8 and the All-Wheel-Drive options.
Exploring the Explorer or
Mercury Mountaineer
Perhaps when more discussions about the '02's begin, they will let us set up one for the new ones only!
I haven't actually driven one, though I will as soon as they come out (probably end of March or so). From what I've read (and heard from engineers at Ford) it is much improved over the current model ... especially ride quality and interior room. I haven't read an article yet about these new vehicles that didn't speak well of them!
What is the other vehicle your wife is considering?
I've driven the LS V8, and I really liked it. The interior noise was quite low, and the V8 power is nice. It's not as nice as the Lexus LS430, but it's also quite a bit less expensive!
I haven't had a chance to drive an '02 Explorer, nor has anyone else, really, but it sounds very impressive in all the articles I read. I'm sure it won't have as nice a ride or "pep" as the LS, but I suppose it's not really supposed to!
My wife and I are actually in the process of purchasing a new vehicle, and we're actually going to get an Expedition. Our second choice was the '02 Explorer, but the special finance rate and our discount on the Expedition are so good, that it will cost us less overall than the Explorer.
When was the last time you changed your spark plugs/wires? 02 Sensor?
So I went to several auto stereo specialists in town who quoted me $200-250 for a high quality (e.g. Kenwood, Alpine) 6-disc changer, plus $150-200 for the required adaptors (which allow the Ford radio to "understand" the changer) plus $60 install, total $450-500.
I ended up buying an Alpine in-dash Radio/CD player for $179 with free install from Circuit City. The sound quality is excellent, and I can easily un-plug it when I sell the vehicle.
Ford clearly does not want to sell aftermarket CD players. And I don't understand why vehicle manufacturers don't utilize a single standard (like VCRs or Palms) to control their stereos. To hell with the greedy auto mfrs.
Hope this helps.
The softness/harshness is not something that will be substantially improved with diffrent shocks. The new shocks will basically help cornering and reduce body roll on turns, but do only a little to smooth out the Explorer's ride over harsh terrain.
As expected, my dealer reported that the thermometer was bad and that an A/C leak would require a replacement part for my 1997 Explorer. Total cost $525, of which approx $425 will be covered by the 6yr/60K extended warranty I purchased for $1500. At this rate, the warranty will pay for itself by the end of the year.
Conclusion: Buy an extended warranty when you buy your used Explorer. There are plenty of insurers on the net that will sell you a 3-6 year policy for $500-1500, depending on coverage and deductible. Based on my experience, I would recommend the bumper-to-bumper platinum policy.