I’ve got a 1997 Expedition myself. The 2V engines are solid—never had a spark plug blow out in the 9 years I’ve owned it, and I’m not worried about it with the updated torque specs.
Have you checked underneath the truck yet? With the Eddie Bauer trim (which this looks like), the wheel arches, door sills (thanks to those plastic running boards), and rear quarter panels are usually pretty well protected from rust. But you should still check the front axle and where the body mounts to the frame. The frame itself holds up pretty well against rust, but the body might not.
If it has the tow package, the oil filter is probably in front of the driver’s side front wheel. It’s easy to get to for oil changes, but it’s also exposed to rust. Those oil filter lines might start leaking over time, and if you’re not checking your oil levels often (I learned this the hard way), you won’t know until your timing chains start making a racket.
If it’s 4x4 and has the tow package, you probably have the 3.73 final drive with the Ford Trak-Lok limited-slip differential. By now, the clutches in the differential are likely worn out, so it might need a rebuild. Also, don’t forget the friction modifier when you change the gear oil. If it’s not 4x4, check the door jamb sticker for the axle code. It might still have the 3.73 with limited-slip.
@Dylan
Wow, you know so much about these Expeditions!
I guess I’m one of the few who’s had good luck with these. I’ve got a 2000 Expedition 4x4 with the 5.4, and it’s been great. I had one semi-serious issue years ago, but I can’t even remember what it was now. I’m at 140k miles, and it’s never let me down. The gas mileage is terrible, but it gets the job done. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable.
@Tobin
I used to have a ‘98 with 250k miles. It never needed any major repairs while I had it—just a slight oil leak. Gas mileage was awful, but I still miss that truck.
A lot of people in this thread don’t seem to know what they’re talking about. The 2V Tritons (like the one in this truck) are some of Ford’s most reliable engines. The only real issue is the spark plugs, which only have a few threads holding them in place, but even if one blows out, it’s a quick fix with an insert—like 45 minutes tops.
The 3V Tritons were the problematic ones from 2003 to early 2008, but they improved after that.
Even if this is a Texas truck, check for rust. The rocker panels are prone to it. Otherwise, these are solid trucks. Just don’t expect more than 15 mpg.
@Yan
This guy knows his stuff. I’ve had my 2009 5.4 since 2018. Bought it with 121k miles, and it’s at 185k now. It drinks gas but keeps going. The engine is still on its original spark plugs and belts. I’ve beat on it pretty hard, and the transmission is starting to feel weak in second gear, but I can’t complain—it’s been solid. If you take care of it, these trucks can last forever.
@Yan
I’ve got a 2008 Focus for gas mileage, so this would just be for hauling building materials and dump runs while I renovate my house.
Colby said:
@Yan
I’ve got a 2008 Focus for gas mileage, so this would just be for hauling building materials and dump runs while I renovate my house.
Smart plan. I’ve got a 2012, and I barely get 13 mpg. I need to grab a cheap commuter car myself.
Colby said:
@Yan
I’ve got a 2008 Focus for gas mileage, so this would just be for hauling building materials and dump runs while I renovate my house.
If you drive carefully (never go over 2,000 RPM), you might get up to 18 mpg. Otherwise, expect it to average around 12 to 14 mpg, especially with larger tires.
Colby said:
@Yan
I’ve got a 2008 Focus for gas mileage, so this would just be for hauling building materials and dump runs while I renovate my house.
Biggest things to watch for are exhaust leaks and general leaks. As long as it sounds, idles, and shifts well, there should be plenty of life left in it.
I had a ‘98 that became an electrical nightmare at 135k miles. But for $4k today, that’s like spending $500 back when I was a student buying cheap cars. If you get a couple of good years out of it, you’ll get your money’s worth.
If it’s a clean title, I’d hit the buy button. $4k for this, especially if it’s 4WD, is a steal. This forum always suggests spending $20k on a Highlander instead, but not everyone wants that.
Cael said:
If it’s a clean title, I’d hit the buy button. $4k for this, especially if it’s 4WD, is a steal. This forum always suggests spending $20k on a Highlander instead, but not everyone wants that.
For real, if you don’t buy it, I might!
I’ve got a 2002 Eddie Bauer 2V 5.4 V8. Honestly, it’s one of the best trucks I’ve ever owned, and I’ve had it for over 20 years now.
Don’t do it.
Nico said:
Don’t do it.
Why not?
Nico said:
Don’t do it.
Why not?
That motor has too many problems. My uncle had one, and it was always in the shop. Eventually, it just sat in the yard and became a junk car.
@Nico
Was it the same 2V engine? The 3V engines from 2003 onward seem to have more issues.
I noticed the third row is missing. Not sure if you care since you’re using it for hauling, but it might affect resale value.