What to do with aging explorer

[tjs4x4]

I just don't know. It's not newer, it needs restoration. The bodywork on it needs work. It's a lotta work to fix it up the way I'd want it. I'm so undecided.

 

[tjs4x4]

That darn rattle on my exhaust is alot louder, just getting louder all the time haha. time to do something about it! Gonna check the junkyards tomorrow for a used one, as I have no clue what to do with my X. Find it hard to believe that there's nobody out there that wants a fairly good condition first gen.

 

[tjs4x4]

TOPIC IS NOW: RESTORATION VS JUST DRIVING

Ook, so the topic of this discussion is now heading to either restoration, or just driving my X til it dies.
Is it going to be worth it to spend the thousands of dollars it will take to restore this beast and make it run perfect and look just as good as new, or am I just better off driving it until it dies? What are the benefits of a newer model vs the 1st gens? Problems? HELP me decide!!

 

[4.0B2]

I'd personally rather have a 1st gen. But it comes down to is it worth it to you.. And if you want or feel like working on it. I'd say keep the ex bc I'm not fond of the newest ones...

 

[tjs4x4]

I don't mind working on it, just some things I am unable to do at home cuz of lack of tools. There is lots of rust underneath, not really sure what to do about that. Starting to rust right on top of the rear fenders in the middle. MOST of the mechanical things in my rig are original: clutch, tranny, engine, suspension, driveline, the rear hatch is not aligned right..etc. It's a great rig, I like driving it, especially since it's a 5-speed. I just don't know if its going to be worth dumping money into vs buying something newer. Any issues with the newer versions vs the 1st gens that I might have to consider if I buy a newer model?

Got some pix of some of the issues with my X:

 

[tjs4x4]

Bumpin' UP!

 

[adsm08]

Where's the rust?

 

[tjs4x4]

Cant you see the pix? The rear fenderwells on top r rusting, paint's starting to bubble. Also some mild amounts underneath.

 

[adsm08]

Hahahah. You should take a look at my truck. You won't complain about rust then.

 

[4.0B2]

I think that's still a solid truck. It's just surface. Pressure wash the bottom and undercoat it good. Then do a diy paint job. Problem solved. That's better than a lot of 1st gens Ive seen

 

[tjs4x4]

Undercoat with paint? What kind of paint should I use?

 

[4.0B2]

no just undercoating on the bottom.. i'm trying to remember the name of the stuff i used. its something like spray on bed liner just not as rough. works better than paint on the bottom.

not the cheapest way, but the shop my dad works at has one..
http://www.amazon.com/Economy-Undercoating-Gun-Under-Coating/dp/B0028OLHOY
and the actual undercoating is
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0028OIBM0/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_2?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000Q6UBQ6&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0DXR50A31QATV1EK3J78

that second link is exactly what i used. its awesome.

when i said paint i ment to do an actual paint job on the body.

 

[4.0B2]

http://www.amazon.com/CRC-05347-Rubberized-Spray-Undercoating/dp/B000M8PZ96

i've never used this, but i guess it could work to. just make sure you clean and pressure wash the frame and all underneath good first. after 4 years mine still looks great.

 

[Original_Ranger84]

You bought Toyo tires for mileage? Those things have the softest rubber that wears out faster then most.

And there is no rust on your truck lol. Heck my 99 has more rust under it then that thing and its got undercoating and everything.

 

[tjs4x4]

I'm only going to do this work if I don't sell it. The paint job will probably b the last to b done.