Looking for an Expedition. Best generation?

[Haztruck]

Hey guys new here from Canada. I am looking for an older expedition to use to haul the dogs and kids on road trips in style and comfort.
I did at one point own a 97 5.4l XLT which I liked. Now I am looking for a truck to own long term and will put some money into.

I am not sure which gen to go with or which are good model years despite doing some research. After checking the classifieds it seems that many of the first gen Expeditions are showing a lot of wear and tear.
I like the look of the 03-04s I see but are these good years? I know Ford made some really crappy Explorers in those years.

I am currently looking at:
04 Expedition XLT 5.4 with 135000 kms on it BUT its Silver (Ugly as sin imo) and no leather. However its only $2400
Will need hood replaced and a stereo

03 Expedition 5.4 Eddie Bauer with 261000 kms fully loaded, aftermarket black rims, new plugs and coils.
BUT rusted rockers and needs 2 tires will be $3k.


I really like the look of the 03 Eddie Bauer but the kms are high so not sure how long it will last in addition not sure that year was good.

Thoughts / Opinions?

 

[Bedrck47]

read the attached links These are some problems with the electrical systems in the 2nd generations You will see mentioned the fuel pump drivers module It is only in the 05/06 expy but the fuse block problem is in all the 2nd gens and the pink wire has be a well documented problem Just a insight for you

http://www.expeditionforum.com/f41/05-expedition-cranks-but-doesnt-start-21903/#post175219

http://www.expeditionforum.com/f41/crank-no-start-p1233-fuel-pump-driver-module-22543/#post182030

http://www.expeditionforum.com/f16/...-auto-headlight-not-working-25453/#post208117

On the last link the problem was resolved as the pink/violet wires were the problem

 

[Haztruck]

Thanks for the links. That stuff doesnt sound to scary, I expect to put some money into the truck. Just dont want to find myself doing an engine or tranny swap until I hit 4-500 000 kms.

Have an 06 escape that Im going on 420000kms, that has only needed and alternator and regular maintenance. Still going strong. I want that in the the expy.

Not a lot in classifieds around here.