1991 Ford Explorer

Description

1991 Ford Explorer (First Generation)
First Generation OverviewThe Ford Explorer was introduced in March 1990 for the 1991 model year. First generation Explorers were equipped with the then new 155HP (116kW) 4.0L Cologne V6, manufactured in Cologne, German.Vehicles came with either Ford's own 4-speed A4LD automatic transmission, built in France, or Mazda's 5-speed M5OD manual transmission. Like the Bronco II it replaced, it was an SUV derivative ofthe Rangerpickup, thus Explorers came equipped with many of the Ranger's optional features. The four-wheel drive versions were equipped witha Borg Warner13–54 part-time four-wheel drive transfer case. The 13–54 was available with either "Touch Drive" electronic push-button shifting or manual lever-operated shifting. Both were "shift-on-the-fly" designs that allowed the SUVs to be shiftedfrom two-wheel driveto "four-high" at any speed and into "four-low" when the vehicle was stopped. All Explorers were equipped withthe Ford 8.8 axlein either a limited slip differential, or open version with a variety of available gear ratios. Four-wheel-drive front axles were the TTB ("Twin Traction Beam") Dana 35 withsome Dana 44components.
Background InformationI purchased this 1991 Ford Explorer from a mechanic in Virginia. I really wanted it because it was a first generation, had a lot of new parts, and wasa 5-speed. I have taken in on many trips throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. This weekend alone I just did a 750 mile round trip to the coast of Delaware out of Pittsburgh. It is a true pleasure to drive and very simple to maintain. Ithas simplistic 90's technology and is tough as hell. I took this vehicle on a canoe trip back in May in West Virginia and had to use the four wheel drive to get back into a launch point and it performed absolutely flawless. The seats fold completely down so we have also camped in it. It is quite comfortable with a sleeping mat and beats a tent any day in my book. I used it as my daily driver up until about three months ago due to the fact that I now have a company truck (yes itis also a Ford). Ionly use theExplorer now for out of town trips. On top of that my girlfriend cannot drive a 5-speed and unfortunately is not interested in learning.
New Parts/Recent Service-Rebuild 4.0 V6 (10,000 miles)-New clutch (5,000 miles)-Newer tires (10,000 miles)-New 2-stage Maaco paint (including side-view mirrors, roof rack, and rear window hinges)-Custom dual exhaust (sounds absolutely incredible)-New front bumper plastic lip-Upgraded suspension-New A/C system (blows super cold)-Upgraded headlights-Upgraded taillights -New black headliner-Updated speakers and head unit -Flushed tranny-Full synthetic oil with filter change (3,000 miles)-Tires rotated (3,000 miles)-Cup holders installed near shifter
Things it could useThe vehicle is ready to run exactly how it is now. I want to make sure I include some things I have noticed in my time of ownership. I have not worried about these little details because they didn't effect me in any way. However, I would like prospective buyers to be the judge.-Missing interior door handle mechanism on one rear door-Missing plate around window button on second rear door-Front seats are worn out (could use seat covers or swapped out)-Carpet in cargo holdis stained-Rear defroster inoperable but button lights up(no issue to me during winter)-Needs new trailer wiring harness (I didn't tow with it)-Chrome wheels are pitted in a few areas (still clean up nicely)-Tint is bubbled in a few areas-Slight surface rust where metal lip is on rear underside corner of body (Maaco said it is a design flaw in a lot of vehicles and that water can build up there)-Emergency brake cable likely needs adjusted or replaced-Random bumps and bruises that were painted over (it wasn't worth it to put thousands into pulling out littledents and bumps when I had it painted)
Personal Ratings Exterior 8/10Interior 6/10Tires 9/10Mechanical 10/10Driver Comfort 7/10Off-road Capability 8/10
Final ThoughtsThis has been one of my favorite vehicles I have ever driven and gotten to own. It can go 80 on the highway and surprisingly gets up and goes. It gets a lot of looks and sounds like a V8 (everyone thinks it has a V8 swap from the exhaust). It isn't loud inside from the exhaust system but the oversized tires have that classic hum on the highway. If it were up to me I would just hang onto it but I cannot rationalize letting this beauty just sit. She wants to be ran and used daily. This would make a great winter vehicle, daily driver, first car, or you could finish off the few things it needs and have a perfect 1991 Ford Explorer. I was shocked by the reviews the first gens Explorersget online and the cultfollowing of these vehicles. However, now that I have owned one I have to admit I got the fever. Please let me know if you have questions or concerns and I will do my absolute best to get an answer for you. Happy bidding! Also, mileage will continue to climb because I will be using it this weekend for another trip to Delaware.