What years/generation of the Expedition are the most Rugged

[mutineer]

Just bought a used 98 Red Expedition EB. Liking it very much and am impressed with the robustness of the construction. Body on full frame, 5.4 triton etc.


I can see replacing this one in the near future with a newer one, but since I am going to spend some coin on switching over from air suspension and maybe tires and wheels before long so I will probably replace it with a 97-01 for parts carry over but am curious as the what everyone's thoughts are as to the most rugged years of production were and why.

 

[tritonman5.4]

i find all gens to be strong but as trouble proned goes...as you know from 97-02 are first gens.as with everything,the first gens usually are the ones with the most problems.its what automakers use to correct,re due,or make better where ever they went wrong at.but all gen expos have their ups and down even with the beginning of the second gen,which started in 03 and even with the third gens that started in 07.

through out the duration of any gen you are gonna have problems...but all gens of expos are rugged and strong.

 

[panda24619]

all expeditions are rugged. i like the 1st gens for the solid rear axle. in my personal opinion i think its better for what i do. and ive seen a lot of them still on the road so ford did something right. and i wouldnt mind a 3rd gen EL. rented one in Hawaii. those are NICE!

 

[mutineer]

The solid rear axle is a selling point for me on 1st gen trucks

I have the air suspension which is totally shot so that is first on my list for major repairs

switching that over to shocks and coils as soon as I can find someone to do it for a reasonable price - I just don't want to tackle that job without a lift

 

[KWT2000]

i like the 1st gen the best and you cant beat a soilid rear axel