Need advice on buying. 4X4 or 2x4? 98-2001yrs?

[supermario]

Need advice on buying Expeditionp 4X4 or 2x4?

Hello, i am new to the forum and need some advice. I have a family of 6 (4kids) and need more room than my 95 Bronco. Anyways, we own a trailer so I know its best to get the 5.4 engine with tow package. But do you guys think the 4x4 is worth the extra money and time to find? I will use the 4x4 during hunting season. Also from 1998-2002, what years may be more reliable?
And is there anything i should stay away from in those years? thanks alot

Also are Expeditions 4wheel drive or All wheel drive and if so, whats the difference.

 

[KWT2000]

i agree the 5.4 is a good choice. as for the 4WD thats up to you do you need it? where i live it would be very hard to find a 2WD so its a preference. they all there qwerks like #3 plug blowing out and lean running condition but it is all fixable i have 232,*** miles on my 97

 

[supermario]

i agree the 5.4 is a good choice. as for the 4WD thats up to you do you need it? where i live it would be very hard to find a 2WD so its a preference. they all there qwerks like #3 plug blowing out and lean running condition but it is all fixable i have 232,*** miles on my 97

I go camping alot and hunting, so i would prefer 4x4, its nice to have that reassurance. I dont go camping in the normal paved roads type of places.
But I was wondering, if i bought a 2 wheel drive and just installed detroit lockers on the rear diff, would that get me out a jam, same as a 4x4 would?

 

[Remo]

Funny, here in New England, I'd say 90% of the Expeditions are 4x4s.
Anyway, I think the lockers might be overkill.
Plus plenty of Expeditions have limited slip differentials in the rear from the factory.
I have a 4x4 but I rarely need to use it. The 3.55 LS rear does just fine for me usually getting through the snow and mild offroad conditions.

Also, concerning 4x4 and AWD:
The 97-98 trucks have 2H, 4H, 4L;
the 99-02 trucks have Auto 4x4, 4H, 4L.
Auto 4x4 is basically 2wd that self-engages into 4H when additional traction is needed (ie when the rear tires are slipping).

If you are towing, definitely get the 5.4L (which still can seem weak on the highway at times) and the factory tow package.

Finally, the 99-02s have newer styled bumpers/grille and also have a bit more horsepower. Other than that, I don't think there are many differences between all the first generation Expedition years. Reliability/performance/features should all be about the same.

Hope that helps. Let us know if you have anymore specific questions. Most of us know these trucks inside and out!

 

[KWT2000]

Funny, here in New England, I'd say 90% of the Expeditions are 4x4s.
Anyway, I think the lockers might be overkill.
Plus plenty of Expeditions have limited slip differentials in the rear from the factory.
I have a 4x4 but I rarely need to use it. The 3.55 LS rear does just fine for me usually getting through the snow and mild offroad conditions.

Also, concerning 4x4 and AWD:
The 97-98 trucks have 2H, 4H, 4L;
the 99-02 trucks have Auto 4x4, 4H, 4L.
Auto 4x4 is basically 2wd that self-engages into 4H when additional traction is needed (ie when the rear tires are slipping).

If you are towing, definitely get the 5.4L (which still can seem weak on the highway at times) and the factory tow package.

Finally, the 99-02s have newer styled bumpers/grille and also have a bit more horsepower. Other than that, I don't think there are many differences between all the first generation Expedition years. Reliability/performance/features should all be about the same.

Hope that helps. Let us know if you have anymore specific questions. Most of us know these trucks inside and out!

i agree the 2WD will be enough and you still lift them as for towing all i tow with my expy is a sled trailer anything bigger i use my powerstroke...

 

[supermario]

Thanks guys, Im searching now for Expeditions. I only have about $3500-$4k to spend though, so I am sure i will be getting one with higher mileage for now. I will use my income tax next year for a new engine. How many miles can i expect out of an Expy?
Whats the maximum amount of miles that i should buy the expedition with. One guys selling a 99 5.4 4x4 with 118k miles for $4400 and its looks in good shape, another guy selling a 98 with 150k miles for $3900 obo and not sure of engine size yet but its super clean shape. Are those prices decent?

 

[KWT2000]

ive had mine for about a year now, i got it.from the.original owner according to the maint records the tranny went out at 176,000 the engine is still original with 232,*** on it so if they are taken care of they last

 

[supermario]

ive had mine for about a year now, i got it.from the.original owner according to the maint records the tranny went out at 176,000 the engine is still original with 232,*** on it so if they are taken care of they last

If you dont mind me asking, how much did it cost to replace/fix the tranny?
sorry for soo many questions but just trying to get as much info on these SUV as i can before purchasing.

 

[KWT2000]

i dont mind. ask all the questions you can theres bound to be someone that knows the answer... the tranny rebuild, labor, heavy duty torque converter, tranny cooler and line flush, fluid, tax and shop supplies was $1396.59.... if your capable of doing the labor and line/cooler flush you can get the tranny rebuilt for $600 and maybe another $100 in fluid and stuff.. hope this helps your decision

 

[jeff1998]

My .02 worth. Get a 4wd but not one that is all wheel drive all the time. Some are selectable: 2wd, AWD, 4wd, and 4wd low. That way the transfer case is only used when you want it to be and not constantly working. I found my 98 Eddie Bauer 4wd with 135000 on Craigslist for $4000. So far the best $4000 I have spent. By getting the 4wd you also get a little more clearance for camping, and the reassurance that you won't get stuck. Also make sure it has the 3rd row seat, 4 kids, you need it. Several I looked at did not have it and getting one from ebay or Craigslist will run you $200 or more.