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which explorer to get

Hi,

My brother and I are helping my father to choose a used explorer. He will be getting a 98, 99 or 2000 model. He wants one that offer 4WD or AWD traction on DRY pavement. In other words he will be putting the truck in 4WD mode and forget about it.

What model and most importantly what are the names of the 4WD systems he should be looking for ?

Some of you might suggest a subaru or AWD mini-ute, but he wants an explorer for its ruggedness.

Thanks for helping.

Reply to
Henry
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Reply to
Fred

Reply to
John Shoemaker

Is V8 the only engine of choice for AWD ? And is this combination available in year 1999, 2000 ? Thanks.

Reply to
Henry

With the v6 you get control trac, which is computer controlled AWD.

Reply to
JaWise

Does that mean when traction is good the truck is basically in RWD mode, and when one or more wheel starts to slip it turns into AWD automatically ? the other fellow mentioned "Control Trac", is this the system you are talking about ? And are all V6 explorer equipped with this "Control Trac" system, or there are other systems ?

Thanks for everyone who have responded.

Reply to
Henry

Control Trac is the system on the V6 models. Usually 90% of power goes to back wheels. If wheels start to slip more power is sent to the front. There is a switch on the dash that can lock it in 4x4 mode and a low range mode. This is computer controlled by switching an electric clutch on and off many times a second. The more it stays "on" the more power sent to the front. In 4High or

4low the clutch is basically on all the time.

In AWD there is a silicone clutch that works mechanically to send more torque to the front. Advantage of this is there are no electronics to break and it seems to be much smoother when it engages.

Disadvantage is you can't lock it in. Your wheels have to start spinning before it kicks in. With control trac you can lock it in 4x4 and torque goes to front and back before the back looses traction.

Also with control trac your dealer can install a nuetral tow option that lets you tow the explorer behind an RV without disconnecting drive shaft.

Reply to
JaWise

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