Well, as much as I like my Mustang, I'm in the need for 4wd and mild towing capacity. So with my car posted for sale, I've got a trade offer for a '97 Expedition. It's and EB edition, with 111,000 on the 5.4. What are the danger areas that I should look for on this type of rig, and what's the normal wear items that need to be addressed at this kind of mileage?

Thanks,
Daren

 

personally I think you would be stupid to buy a 10 year old vehicle with 100k miles on it, especially a 4x4

especially a first year model (1997 was the first year) that is 10 years old with 100k miles on it

but thats just me

 

Even though the "first-year bug" didn't bite the Expy (they are good, solid trucks), I'd probably pass on it too. The last thing you want when out on the road with a trailer is to have tow rig troubles.

If the deal is really good and you're willing to put some more $$ into it-

I wouldn't worry about the engine too much... if it's been properly maintained, it should last another 100k. Of course it could blow up on the way home too!

The air ride suspension is likely near end-of-life and is somewhat troublesome & expensive to repair/replace. Other suspension components are probably due for replacement too.

I'd also figure on rebuilding the tranny as the E4OD of that era was often only good for about 100k. Be sure to that all the 4WD functions are operational.

Other issues were the multifunction wiper/washer switch on the turn signal stalk and the rear wiper itself.

 

How about the fact that the motor likes to blow spark plugs? Besides that, it's a great truck. There are several members on here who tow a lot with their 1997 F-150s, and have high mileage. Mitch150 comes to mind, he's towing a huge TT and has over 160K.

 

Keep in mind, the '97 had the lower powered 5.4 also.

But depending on what you're towing and how much, the right money talks. I can't imagine it's true worth to be more than a $5-7k.

 

100,000 is nothing for an engine now adays. Check for rust on bottom of door seals. See how she runs, and try out all the accesories. I'd wouldn't feel bad at all for buying a 10 year old vehicle if that is all I could manage. Check brakes, tires, etc. Take it to a mechanic for a once over.

 

FWIW, my '97 Expedition 5.4l has 156k miles, is my daily driver and still runs/drives great. I've only had to repair/replace the alternator, 1 coil pack, and rear axle seals. Although I've taken very good care of it. W/ a used car it's an unknown. However, it's not a very good tow vehicle. Even w/ the "big" 5.4l engine, it's bretty gutless, and when you attach a trailer your mileage will go from ~15 mpg to ~9-10mpg, depending on weight. Overall a good vehicle though.
Like previously posted, $5-7k is probobly a realistic value.

 

I;ll second the FYI to these boneheads telling you to stay away. My 98 Navigator has just under 100K miles, its blown to the hilt with addons galore, the air ride is fine, the only single problem I have ever had is the number 1 spark plug shot out on me. I added a plug cery for $34 and haven't had an issue with it since then. They are great trucks, and you can get hellishly good deals on them right now.1

 

I bought my '97 Expy 5.4 with 83,000 miles. At about 90,000 miles a tie rod fell apart in the driveway at work. Apparently a common problem. At about 120,000 I put a new alternator in it. Axle seals at about 110,000. Tranny went out at 119,000 miles due to an internal snap ring letting go. The builder said this is a common cause of tranny failure with the E40D. Most rebuilds will update the part. I have slight rust on the bottom, inside of the doors.
I pull a 5,600 lb trailer and carry about 500 lbs of parts and tools in the back at the same time. Its a Jeep that I pull so there is a lot of wind resistance. It pulls it fine. My brother has a 99 Chev 1 ton, 454 and my truck will accelerate quicker from the lights and holds speed better on the hills. Its currently for sale and I started out at $7200 and I'm down to $6500 with no calls. I've got many perf mods and I know I can't really get anything more for those. In the winter I get about 10-11 mpg. In the summer I have gotten 19 but mostly stays at 16 mpg.
When you go to look at one pay attention to whether the engine is warm when you get there. You want to try to start one up cold to listen for piston slap. I though I had piston slap since 90,000 miles but I just put a qt of Marvel Mystery oil in and the noise is gone. It now has 145,000 miles and it is a great truck. It does it all. It runs excellent. I would say that it is the perfect vehicle for me. If got about 10 more mpg I would drive it into the ground. Good Luck.