I’ve had my 03 ford explorer for about 3-4 years now. I got it with 64k miles on it. It now has 88k miles. I’m going to start doing a lot of custom work on it
I don't feel it's that small. The Escape is smaller. This is pretty much an overall perfect size I think. It is not tiny. But also not unnecessary big like a modern F-150. Would love to have a 2010 V8 Adrenalin
Good job friend. I've got a 2004 that I have put time into and it gets a lot of looks and comments for an SUV of its age. Looking to do similar suspension work on it soon.
I just got an ‘04 4wd with 149,000 miles for $600. I thought it was a scam at first to be honest. I’m very impressed with it, and I’d like to add the tow hooks and dvd player for the kids first.
So glad I watched this video. I was wondering about when the seats are down in the back. There was a big gap. I didn’t realize you could slide that flat panel forward. That’s nice. I was lucky. I got the rollup tunnel cover with mine as well.
I had 31 inch tires on mine and was geting crappy mileage like you i went back to Stock size and now i average 16mpg. The Ironman came with a lift and i added 2inch leveling kit it looks great even with stock tires
I am so jealous. Mine is a 2003 with a sunroof and door key thing. I need to make it look as sleek as this one. Absolutely beautiful. Mine only has 49,000 miles on it which everyone tells me is crazy. It was my grandpas and he never drove it. I need some ideas on what to change on it!
My 05 has 186,000 miles on it. I got it used in '12. I like it better than any other car I've ever had. I wish I could afford the lift and bigger tires. That 3 inch lift is perfect IMO without being too much. I think mine has too many issues now to worry about aesthetics though. That is super good looking!!!
How exactly did you mount the tow hooks. Have you tapped the frame? I pulled out a couple from a sport trac. On the sport trac they mount to the frame, which is threaded. On the explorer the whole are not threaded.
Nice! I've been considering buying an '02 with the V6 and 95k miles, but got kinda freaked out researching this model and engine. Weak transmission, and timing cassette failures on the V6. But I think if I could get one at a good price it might be worth it. With the SOHC V6 the engine has to come completely out to do a full timing job. You're lucky you got the V8! I've had a couple of those 4.6L engines in F150's and they were trouble-free.
I ended up having a lot of issues with this Explorer. If I built another 4x4 again, I would do a Lexus GX470. It would be much more reliable and cost less in the long run.
I have the 2005 XLT with sunroof and leather interior. 225,000 miles on that bad boy. I have replaced the transmission and done some small work to it. My favorite recent additions are blacked out rear and front lights.
I have a more basic 03 explorer and it has a better 4wheel drive system then the more expensive 03 my husband has but still love it I've took it on some pretty rough trails and haven't gotten stuck.
Looks real nice! That lift kit, could you link to it? That cracked panel cracks because it's only braced right under the logo. I just applied a small bead of silicone to it and call it a day. I like my stock wheels, but I'll be needing tires soon and would like to upgrade to something halfway to yours. Thanks for reminding me about the treasure load in junkyards for these - somebody burgled mine and took the overhead counsel, that I had removed because it was loose.. I also need a new driver seat. And last on my list - I'm definitely going to have mine redone from the copper-red to flat black. Maybe in that bedliner texture that I like a lot.
I have an 05 all wheel drive, promised a year it’s been making a noise upfront that we can’t figure out, originally thought it was a rotor, change them and the pads, not a rubbing pad, or a rotor, jacked it up the wheel is tight didn’t think the bearing is bad, the outer edge of the front tires are wearing down, and the noise sounds like the front tires are almost 80% flat while you’re driving, but they’re not flat that’s just what it sounds like, voted to three mechanics they can’t figure out what it is that you say possibly a Barry
If it was a wheel bearing you should get a light on your dash indicating there are issues with the bearing. Have you looked at the CV Axles? Those are the easy fixes. After that it would get more pricey. Possibly an inner bearing.
Do you think there is a tire size a guy can go with where you would have better clearance for steering if a guy would go bigger. I have 17" wheels on my 2006 Eddie Bauer. I have 4.0 V6. Do they make a 255/70R17. I was thinking if a 255/65R17 might work. Stock is 245/65R17
I like the details of your explorer ,even the spare tire carrier I have the second generation xlt 4wh dr my95 is good rider few issues with the electrical but overall mechanical good , been driven daily for 7yrs when I got it the milage counter wasn't working 187 .000 showing , mine has fabric seats
Hi. Thanks for video.I have the same suv but i am living in Uzbekistan. I need an advise because there's only one Expo driving out the roads here around. What the important parts i should i have to be feeling safe and ready for reinstalled. Thx, Sam.
I had to replace many parts, so it’s hard to know what to recommend. Transmission seems to be a problem point on these. Also other minor things like window motors etc.
Does the DVD player has surround sound? I like the 4th gen better especially because of the manly mid-consile shifter. But the overall shape of this one is growing on me more and more. Looks sleek in black.
Impressive! I drive an 02- 4.0 -v6 Explorer and the only thing I've always wanted so badly is its lift with an intention to install some 22 inch wheels on it. I seriously need a DIY help on what to get n what to do please. Godbless
What should I do to assure the oil pump don’t go out and ruin the engine or whatever? It’s a 2003 4.6L like this with 204,000 on it. I also have a 2010 Crown Vic PI, same engine, but I’ve never heard of this really happening on crown vics. Or any other model with 4.6L for that matter.
i have a 2004 with the BTF upper control arms and the 3" pucks. put 255/85r16 falken mt01 on the stock wheels, that's 33" tire and it is great. nice clearance offroad, looks pretty cool, and can go a lot of places...it had factory 255/70r16 (30") so it had a 4.10 d2 axle already in it, good enough until i feel going for lockers and then maybe 4.56 or whatever.
Wow! Did you have to trim with the 33” tire? I have wondered on much the -12 offset rims have affected my clearances. I know the clearance on the rear is close with these 31.5” tires.
@@ryanhablitzel I need to do some trimming on the plastic when i'm at full turn. haven't done any yet. if i would have gone to a wider tire, i would have had to use spacers or different offset wheels, or the control arm would be in the way.
I was gifted an 05 explorer limited with the 4.6 v8 as my first car (170,000 miles) and after driving it for almost a year, Im starting to notice that it sometimes takes a second to go reverse after I shift it into reverse. Any idea what’s going on or how I can fix that?
I would recommend taking it to a transmission shop to have the fluid level checked or serviced. Checking the fluid level and servicing these transmissions is complicated. The harsh reality is that the transmission will likely need to be rebuilt.
Hello I would like to put a 2 or 3 inch lift on a 2008 Ford Explorer. Can you help me fit the right longer springs? Maybe a link to an online store with the possibility of shipping to Poland will suffice
I like the smaller footprint of the Explorer because it fits into tight areas more easily, but the Expedition would be a great choice for towing and room for the family. I don’t think the Explorer is an ideal tow vehicle. It’s just not built as robust.
@@ArmyK5Guy I have an 02 4.6 - the transmission kicked the bucket around 150k miles and cost me a little shy of $3k to rebuild. But in all those miles that's the only major repair I've had to do to it
Ummm... I'm extremely embarrassed to say that I never knew about that button to release only the rear glass on my 2005. And I bought it new in 2005. 😂🤣😂🤣😂
If you know where all the transmission speed sensors are located on an 02 Eddie 4.6L 4wd let me know. If I give it steady gas from 0mph it shifts fine, but as soon at you start playing with the pedal it throws a Check Transmission and O/D flashes. At 0mph if you stomp on it the rpm's hang at 6,000 before shifting with every other shift point being ok. Sometimes it'll shift properly and acts like a tease because when it shifts and goes it really does GO. Could be a fun vehicle to make a sleeper as well if you have that 4.6 2V and a few grand. But seriously, transmission speed sensors specific location PLEASE!!
Катаюсь сейчас на таком , уже 5 лет . 4.6 limited. Запчастей в России на них маловато , впускной коллектор пришлось заказывать с америки , уже два года на могу найти крышку двигателя , из за климата и реагентов сгнили пороги и арки , буду восстанавливать )
UN AMOR VERDADERO JAJAJA, TENGO UNO IGUAL PERO 2005 EDDIE BAUER, ANTES TUVE UNA HYUNDAI TERRACAN 3.5 V6 QUE ES MUY SIMILAR AL KIA SORENTO DE 2005 Y ESOTS SI SON VERDADEROS TODOTERRENO, PERO NO TIENEN LA COMODIDAD DE LA EXPLORER.....VOY A PROBAR LA MIA ESTE FIN DE SEMANA EN UN POCO DE LODO Y UNAS PENDIENTES RESBALOSAS, QUIERO USAR EL 4X4 LOW, ALGÚN CONSEJO POR FAVOR ANTES DE QUE DESTRUYA LA EXPLORER? GRACIAS!!
I’ve had my 03 ford explorer for about 3-4 years now. I got it with 64k miles on it. It now has 88k miles. I’m going to start doing a lot of custom work on it
That’s a fresh explorer! Enjoy!
If it still shifts good then I support it
I loved that model!!! I had it few years ago. After a long while, now I’ve got a 4th gen and i am super happy. Its almost the same model
It’s a nice small capable SUV 👌🏼
I don't feel it's that small. The Escape is smaller. This is pretty much an overall perfect size I think. It is not tiny. But also not unnecessary big like a modern F-150.
Would love to have a 2010 V8 Adrenalin
Good job friend. I've got a 2004 that I have put time into and it gets a lot of looks and comments for an SUV of its age. Looking to do similar suspension work on it soon.
An underrated SUV for sure!
Its looks nice! Thanks for the fog feature. I have owned the Eddie Bauer v6 for a year and didn’t even know. 189K and many more to go!
Nice! Yeah, the fog light feature is sneaky!
I had time to kill and was reading the owners manual. I discovered it today and could have used it many times in the past. Sneaky as hell
Dream configuration and yours is in suberb condition. Tasteful mods and repairs. Good for you :)
Thanks!
What a beatiful explorer!!! I have a 2005 Límited awd and i love it. Same equipment that yours.
Thank you! Love the versatility and options on these!
I just got an ‘04 4wd with 149,000 miles for $600. I thought it was a scam at first to be honest. I’m very impressed with it, and I’d like to add the tow hooks and dvd player for the kids first.
Nice! Hope you enjoy it for a long time!
So glad I watched this video. I was wondering about when the seats are down in the back. There was a big gap. I didn’t realize you could slide that flat panel forward. That’s nice. I was lucky. I got the rollup tunnel cover with mine as well.
Very nice. Glad it helped!
@@ryanhablitzel I got stupid lucky... $2400... it has mile but... love it and am averaging 19.8 on highway with the 4.6 V8. Am LOVING these "splorers"
...ist ja eine Deutsche name oder lol klingt so.
👌🏼
If you put a supercharger on that puppy you're looking at 400 horsepower. 👍😎
I must say it's surprisingly modern for that time. Has a lot of features.
She’s a fun ride. Doubt she could handle the supercharger though 🏋🏻♂️
@@ryanhablitzel I wonder how much better is the 4 gen Explorer. Better driving? More stable?
Nice,I miss mine 2002 limited ,289000 miles
I had 31 inch tires on mine and was geting crappy mileage like you i went back to Stock size and now i average 16mpg. The Ironman came with a lift and i added 2inch leveling kit it looks great even with stock tires
Nice! I think having offset rims with the stock size tires would look great too
@@ryanhablitzel It has 2 inch spacers
I am so jealous. Mine is a 2003 with a sunroof and door key thing. I need to make it look as sleek as this one. Absolutely beautiful. Mine only has 49,000 miles on it which everyone tells me is crazy. It was my grandpas and he never drove it. I need some ideas on what to change on it!
49,000 miles 😱😱😱
It looks awesome. Someone just gave me a gold colored one today. Hopefully I can customize it like yours.
That’s amazing! Best of luck on your build!
My 05 has 186,000 miles on it. I got it used in '12. I like it better than any other car I've ever had. I wish I could afford the lift and bigger tires. That 3 inch lift is perfect IMO without being too much. I think mine has too many issues now to worry about aesthetics though. That is super good looking!!!
Glad you have had a great experience with the Explorer. I really liked the look of the Explorer after the lift, but the dependability was an issue.
I just got one, and its lifted. I would like to do the negative offset to feel safer
👍🏼
Dude my explorer looks identical.. thought it was the same one from the thumbnail for a second
Haha Sweet!
How exactly did you mount the tow hooks. Have you tapped the frame?
I pulled out a couple from a sport trac. On the sport trac they mount to the frame, which is threaded. On the explorer the whole are not threaded.
It was an easy install. Everything from the factory was prepped and ready to go. I have a video on my channel detailing the install.
Nice! I've been considering buying an '02 with the V6 and 95k miles, but got kinda freaked out researching this model and engine. Weak transmission, and timing cassette failures on the V6. But I think if I could get one at a good price it might be worth it. With the SOHC V6 the engine has to come completely out to do a full timing job. You're lucky you got the V8! I've had a couple of those 4.6L engines in F150's and they were trouble-free.
I ended up having a lot of issues with this Explorer. If I built another 4x4 again, I would do a Lexus GX470. It would be much more reliable and cost less in the long run.
I have the 2005 XLT with sunroof and leather interior. 225,000 miles on that bad boy. I have replaced the transmission and done some small work to it. My favorite recent additions are blacked out rear and front lights.
👌🏼
I have a more basic 03 explorer and it has a better 4wheel drive system then the more expensive 03 my husband has but still love it I've took it on some pretty rough trails and haven't gotten stuck.
Very nice. I ended up selling this one because it didn’t hold up to the abuse and I started repairing it too often.
I have an 07 Ironman 4.6.. You have a Sweet Ride
07 is way nicer 👏🏼
Looks real nice!
That lift kit, could you link to it?
That cracked panel cracks because it's only braced right under the logo. I just applied a small bead of silicone to it and call it a day.
I like my stock wheels, but I'll be needing tires soon and would like to upgrade to something halfway to yours.
Thanks for reminding me about the treasure load in junkyards for these - somebody burgled mine and took the overhead counsel, that I had removed because it was loose.. I also need a new driver seat.
And last on my list - I'm definitely going to have mine redone from the copper-red to flat black. Maybe in that bedliner texture that I like a lot.
TH-cam won’t let me link the lift kit website, but you can google search for BTF Fabrication and it will come up.
I also have a video detailing the lift instal 👌🏼
I have an 05 all wheel drive, promised a year it’s been making a noise upfront that we can’t figure out, originally thought it was a rotor, change them and the pads, not a rubbing pad, or a rotor, jacked it up the wheel is tight didn’t think the bearing is bad, the outer edge of the front tires are wearing down, and the noise sounds like the front tires are almost 80% flat while you’re driving, but they’re not flat that’s just what it sounds like, voted to three mechanics they can’t figure out what it is that you say possibly a Barry
If it was a wheel bearing you should get a light on your dash indicating there are issues with the bearing. Have you looked at the CV Axles? Those are the easy fixes. After that it would get more pricey. Possibly an inner bearing.
I always wanted to do a 5.0 302 engine in these. Mine is a 2006 Eddie Bauer Black with Gold trim.
Too bad they didn’t come from the factory like that. Only in 2001.
Do you think there is a tire size a guy can go with where you would have better clearance for steering if a guy would go bigger. I have 17" wheels on my 2006 Eddie Bauer. I have 4.0 V6. Do they make a 255/70R17. I was thinking if a 255/65R17 might work. Stock is 245/65R17
Not sure. A little smaller than mine with the same lift would have no rubbing
I like the details of your explorer ,even the spare tire carrier I have the second generation xlt 4wh dr my95 is good rider few issues with the electrical but overall mechanical good , been driven daily for 7yrs when I got it the milage counter wasn't working 187 .000 showing , mine has fabric seats
Sounds like you got a good one 👍🏼
Nice Rig!! I just bought a 2004 Eddie Bauer Edition, black n tan, the leather seats I'm not crazy about but I'm looking for good seat covers!!
Thanks! Have fun with your rig!
Thank you, that was alot info and some good detils, wish you the best
You’re welcome!
How much would the suspension cost me just parts. I'm here I'n UT too btw 🤙🏾 love mine 256 and going strong I want some meaty tires
Just parts were about $1000. Check out BTF Fabrication
Chris Pontius does car reviews?
🤔
Hi. Thanks for video.I have the same suv but i am living in Uzbekistan. I need an advise because there's only one Expo driving out the roads here around. What the important parts i should i have to be feeling safe and ready for reinstalled. Thx, Sam.
I had to replace many parts, so it’s hard to know what to recommend. Transmission seems to be a problem point on these. Also other minor things like window motors etc.
Does the DVD player has surround sound? I like the 4th gen better especially because of the manly mid-consile shifter. But the overall shape of this one is growing on me more and more. Looks sleek in black.
It does have surround sound
Really super. ❤
Impressive! I drive an 02- 4.0 -v6 Explorer and the only thing I've always wanted so badly is its lift with an intention to install some 22 inch wheels on it. I seriously need a DIY help on what to get n what to do please. Godbless
I have some other videos on installing the lift on this Explorer. Not too big of a deal to install a lift if you are decently mechanically inclined.
What should I do to assure the oil pump don’t go out and ruin the engine or whatever? It’s a 2003 4.6L like this with 204,000 on it. I also have a 2010 Crown Vic PI, same engine, but I’ve never heard of this really happening on crown vics. Or any other model with 4.6L for that matter.
Not much you can do except perform your regular oil changes religiously at least every 5000 miles with quality oil.
i have a 2004 with the BTF upper control arms and the 3" pucks. put 255/85r16 falken mt01 on the stock wheels, that's 33" tire and it is great. nice clearance offroad, looks pretty cool, and can go a lot of places...it had factory 255/70r16 (30") so it had a 4.10 d2 axle already in it, good enough until i feel going for lockers and then maybe 4.56 or whatever.
Wow! Did you have to trim with the 33” tire? I have wondered on much the -12 offset rims have affected my clearances. I know the clearance on the rear is close with these 31.5” tires.
@@ryanhablitzel I need to do some trimming on the plastic when i'm at full turn. haven't done any yet. if i would have gone to a wider tire, i would have had to use spacers or different offset wheels, or the control arm would be in the way.
@@chriscappuccioI'd be really curious to see your unit and the tires
Still have my 02 4.6 Explorer XLT since 2008. 125,000 miles. Thinkin about sellin it.
Only 125,000 miles 😳
I was gifted an 05 explorer limited with the 4.6 v8 as my first car (170,000 miles) and after driving it for almost a year, Im starting to notice that it sometimes takes a second to go reverse after I shift it into reverse. Any idea what’s going on or how I can fix that?
I would recommend taking it to a transmission shop to have the fluid level checked or serviced. Checking the fluid level and servicing these transmissions is complicated. The harsh reality is that the transmission will likely need to be rebuilt.
Many people underestimate how important it is to change the fluids.
You have black tow hooks on the front bumper
Yeah 😎
Hello
I would like to put a 2 or 3 inch lift on a 2008 Ford Explorer. Can you help me fit the right longer springs? Maybe a link to an online store with the possibility of shipping to Poland will suffice
BTF Fabrication
Can you link where you found the leveling kit please
TH-cam won’t let me link, but if you just google search BTF Fabrication, you will find it.
I have an 03 basically the same exact set up minus the screen. I never knew the back seat had that slider for flat trunk space 🤦🏽♂️😂
🙌🏼
Great! from which website I can get the tire spare holder for my ford explorer 2004?
Rigd Suppy
What’s your thoughts on the expedition vs explorer
Looking for a family vehicle but still able to tow a 3500 pound trailer
I like the smaller footprint of the Explorer because it fits into tight areas more easily, but the Expedition would be a great choice for towing and room for the family. I don’t think the Explorer is an ideal tow vehicle. It’s just not built as robust.
i have2005 xlt whats average cost for part and labor
Not sure how to answer that. It Carrie’s based on location etc.
How big of tired could I have with stock suspension
Probably about half way from my tire size and stock would work
How big is the light bar in the front
20 inches
on which page can you get the things to lift the car I'm from Mexico
BTF Fabrication
BTF 3” Level Kit Install 2003 Ford Explorer
th-cam.com/video/irqMyGBaSkw/w-d-xo.html
@@ryanhablitzel thanks
Nice truck man im inspired to make mine look similar to yours now honestly looks like a cartel or fedz truck haha😂
Ready for battle 😎
Any issues with these for transmission? Wondering what major issues it has
I did have to replace the transmission in this explorer. I would say it is the weakest point on this vehicle.
@@ryanhablitzel how many miles where you at ? How much did repair cost you ?
@@ArmyK5Guy I have an 02 4.6 - the transmission kicked the bucket around 150k miles and cost me a little shy of $3k to rebuild. But in all those miles that's the only major repair I've had to do to it
@@ArmyK5Guy I was at about 145k
I have an 03 4.L v6 4x4 with 50k miles how often do you guys recommend changing the transmission fluid?
Ummm... I'm extremely embarrassed to say that I never knew about that button to release only the rear glass on my 2005.
And I bought it new in 2005.
😂🤣😂🤣😂
🤓
Can the lift work on a 2005 ford explorer xlt ?
Yes. It’s the exact same fit.
@@ryanhablitzelhello what your engine ??
@@renegade9758 I think his is the 4.6 L there is only two engine options a 4.0 L or 4.6L
@@timonraccoon ok
@@ryanhablitzel I'm trying to find everything to do a lift can i get list what you used
is the body roll issue true?
I’ve found the Explorer to be a very stable and smooth ride. I’ve never once had a concern about body roll.
If you know where all the transmission speed sensors are located on an 02 Eddie 4.6L 4wd let me know. If I give it steady gas from 0mph it shifts fine, but as soon at you start playing with the pedal it throws a Check Transmission and O/D flashes. At 0mph if you stomp on it the rpm's hang at 6,000 before shifting with every other shift point being ok. Sometimes it'll shift properly and acts like a tease because when it shifts and goes it really does GO. Could be a fun vehicle to make a sleeper as well if you have that 4.6 2V and a few grand. But seriously, transmission speed sensors specific location PLEASE!!
Im not sure where the trans speed sensors are, but that’s how my transmission acted before I had to have it replaced 😬
Катаюсь сейчас на таком , уже 5 лет . 4.6 limited. Запчастей в России на них маловато , впускной коллектор пришлось заказывать с америки , уже два года на могу найти крышку двигателя , из за климата и реагентов сгнили пороги и арки , буду восстанавливать )
No idea what that all means, but 👍🏼😎
need to match the front window tints with the back one looks amazing though regardless !
That would be nice!
Hermosa camioneta yo tengo una son las camioneras mas comodas esa Ford explorer ni las nuevas llegan a esa comodidad
¡Órale!
Rayan i am so far from the us. Guess much you know how much nerves i had to pay. Thanks.
Nice truck,but you should definitely clean those headlights
Haha yea
Whats wrong with the paint on this car?
Nothing? It has a chips that have had touch up paint. That’s it.
If you wsnt i can send a photo of this horse. I love it much and i hope to keep years and years long bro.
Nice 👍🏼
What the hell why does your dvd player look way cooler than mine mine is a 2002 limited
Do you have the rear entertainment package? I think it’s a 6 disk CD player also. That might change things.
@@ryanhablitzel I don’t think I do I only have the dvd player on the top
@@ryanhablitzel maybe it’s because I have a sunroof I think it’s different because I don’t have the vents on the top either
UN AMOR VERDADERO JAJAJA, TENGO UNO IGUAL PERO 2005 EDDIE BAUER, ANTES TUVE UNA HYUNDAI TERRACAN 3.5 V6 QUE ES MUY SIMILAR AL KIA SORENTO DE 2005 Y ESOTS SI SON VERDADEROS TODOTERRENO, PERO NO TIENEN LA COMODIDAD DE LA EXPLORER.....VOY A PROBAR LA MIA ESTE FIN DE SEMANA EN UN POCO DE LODO Y UNAS PENDIENTES RESBALOSAS, QUIERO USAR EL 4X4 LOW, ALGÚN CONSEJO POR FAVOR ANTES DE QUE DESTRUYA LA EXPLORER? GRACIAS!!
Ándale pues!!!
I got a 2005 with 225000 miles original engine and tranny but the rust is coming now
Wow 😮 That’s a Survivor for sure!
Should paint the “tow hooks” red, stand out more. 🤙🏼❤️🇺🇸🤠
🤓
shit, for a moment I thought this was the guy from jackass
🙈
l love t l have a V8 2006 nise explorer
Newer body style 👌🏼
All that work and the headlights look like yellow teeth ?? Just replace them 🤷🏻♂️
😂
$25k and only putting 8000 miles on it? Thats not worth it. If you put $25k with only 8000 miles you just gone broke my guy.
I did go broke lol