Ford Expedition (1997-2002)?

[Root Moose]

How do we like first the generation Ford Expedition?

From what I can find online they seem reliable enough, decent if slow tow vehicle. Later engines are more powerful, difference in transmissions. Does it matter in the real world?

Things to look for?

There is a 60,000 mile 1997 for ~$5000 a few hours away that I'm thinking about taking a look at. It looks good in the pictures but I'm debating whether it is worth the trip to inspect.

Thanks.

 

[Johnnie Walker]

I wouldn't bother. But I guess if it has been maintained, fully loaded, 5.4L, etc. Then I guess go ahead and check it out. IMO better off with a GM for a gasser SUV/truck.

 

[macgyvr]

They work.

The major complaints are the rear coil suspension being too soft to tow. That said, I know two people around here that have towed their off road rigs with them. One of them even had a 4.6 in it. Wouldn't win a drag race, but it worked.

I don't know what rust is like around you, but the rear suspension pieces like to rust out, pay careful attention to the upper control arms.

mac 'you can run air bags in the rear coils' gyvr

 

[IllianaXJ]

Exhaust manifold studs tend to rust, leaving you with an expensive exhaust leak. I had a '00 Eddie Bauer, and after the manifold stud fix and a fresh tune up it ran great. I would buy another one for the wife's DD if I could find a good one.

If you are going to tow with it, airbags are a must, along with a good brake controller. A set of bags is $100, easy to install in the driveway.

 

[Root Moose]

Thanks guys. Rust is a factor but I think this truck spent it's life being towed behind an RV and not driven regularly so hopefully there is no body rust to speak of.

 

[w_howey]

The lower rear control arms are susceptible to rust. They are the same lousy design like a XJ front lowers. The factory air ride system can be problematic. The earliest 97-2000 were the ones that liked to shoot the spark plugs out of the block randomly.

You won't win any races with it. But it will do 60-65 mph. And comfy leather seats to boot.