Body Electrical, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Charging System, Starting System, Audio System, Climate Control Electrical Components, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) related diagnostics
Body:
Interior and Exterior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Body Panels, Glass, Bumpers, Wipers, Sunroof (if equipped), Convertible Top (if equipped - less common for '96)
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil change, Filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), Fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, transmission, power steering, differential), Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Battery maintenance
Repair:
Engine component replacement (heads, gaskets, pistons, bearings), Transmission rebuild/overhaul, Brake system service (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), Suspension component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, shocks, struts), Steering system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and alignment, HVAC system service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring diagrams, Component testing procedures, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Fuel injection system diagnostics, Ignition system diagnostics
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, and step-by-step troubleshooting trees for various systems.
Special Tools:
Lists required special tools for specific procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF (typically)
Print Quality
Readability:
High resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.
Binding Type
Physical Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Physical Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0 Liters (245 cu in)
Engine 1 Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 (Cologne design)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
160 hp @ 4200 RPM
Engine 1 Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM
Optional Engine
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.0 Liters (302 cu in)
Engine 2 Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8 (Windsor design)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
205 hp @ 4000 RPM
Engine 2 Torque:
285 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM
Fuel System
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump Pressure 4.0L:
30-40 PSI
Fuel Pump Pressure 5.0L:
30-40 PSI
Lubrication
Oil Type 4.0L:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)
Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5.0 US quarts (with filter)
Oil Type 5.0L:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)
Approx. 11.7 US quarts (4.0L V6), 12.0 US quarts (5.0L V8)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4R55E)
Optional Automatic
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4R70W - often with 5.0L V8)
Optional Manual
Type:
5-speed Manual (M5OD-R1)
Fluid Type Automatic
Fluid Specification:
Mercon (MERCON V is backward compatible)
Fluid Capacity Automatic
Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 US quarts (total capacity, refill typically 4-5 quarts)
Fluid Type Manual
Fluid Specification:
Mercon V or equivalent manual transmission fluid (e.g., Synchromesh)
Fluid Capacity Manual
Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 US quarts
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches (2659 mm)
Length:
178.9 inches (4544 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
63.3 inches (1608 mm) (approx. varies with 2WD/4WD)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx 2Wd:
3,900 - 4,100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg)
Curb Weight Approx 4Wd:
4,100 - 4,300 lbs (1860 - 1950 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,500 - 5,800 lbs (2495 - 2630 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 40.5 cu ft (1147 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 81.5 cu ft (2308 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
N/A specific rating for '96 model, but generally higher risk for SUVs of this era compared to sedans. Manual provides rollover mitigation advice.
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, or all four wheels depending on trim and options.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts in front, 2-point lap belts in rear (later models may have 3-point rear belts). Child seat anchor points (LATCH not standard).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional (ABS)
Connectivity
Auxiliary Inputs:
N/A (no factory standard AUX or USB)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (or 6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on towing or severe use. Manual transmission fluid typically every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon or Mercon V (check manual)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Differential Fluid Rear Std:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-140 for towing)
Differential Fluid Rear Lsd:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 with friction modifier (if limited slip differential)
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mercon or Mercon V
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake components, U-joints, catalytic converter.
Engine 4.0L Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially early 4.0L), valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Engine 5.0L Common Problems:
Less prone to major gasket failures than the early 4.0L, but still susceptible to valve cover and oil pan leaks.
Transmission Common Problems:
4R55E/4R70W solenoids failing, torque converter issues, valve body issues, overheating.
4Wd System Common Problems:
Transfer case actuator issues (if electronic shift), vacuum leaks for hub operation (if applicable).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford SUV Legacy:
Ford's SUV lineage includes the Bronco, which paved the way for more family-oriented models.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The 1991-2001 generation introduced the Explorer, quickly becoming a best-seller and defining the modern mid-size SUV market for Ford.
Second Generation Transition:
While this is a first-generation model, the 1995 redesign brought significant updates including more aerodynamic styling and a new independent front suspension option, which the '96 model continues.
Production
Manufacturing Plants:
Louisville, Kentucky; St. Louis, Missouri
Production Years First Gen:
1990 (as 1991 model) - 2001
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The first-generation Explorer was an immediate sales success and widely praised for its car-like ride and versatility compared to older truck-based SUVs.
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