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Manufacturer Brochure - 1998 Ford Explorer
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| Updated |
Jun 3, 2004 17:28:55 |
| Rating |
 71 ( -10 -14.08% ) |
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Description:
Ford's segment-leading Explorer compact sport utility for 1998 gets an improved steering system, the next-generation ABS hardware, a standard anti-theft system and comfort and convenience upgrades for 1998.
Three engines are offered. The standard powertrain is a 4.0-liter V-6, which delivers 160 horsepower at 4,200 rpm through a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic OD is an option. Eddie Bauer and Limited models are powered by a 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 rated at 205 h.p. at 5,000 rpm and teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission. This combination was introduced in 1997 and is optional with XL, Sport and XLT trim levels. A 215-h.p., 5.0-liter V-8 is offered on some models with two-wheel or all-wheel drive.
For 1998, there are two driveline-related improvements. A self-adjusting clutch has been added to 4.0-liter Explorers with manual transmissions. Customer benefits are longer clutch life and an enhanced pedal package throughout the life of the vehicle. There's been a minor programming change to Explorer's innovative Control Trac four-wheel drive system. During heavy acceleration in the 4WD Auto mode, more torque is directed to the front axle to lessen the likelihood of rear wheel slippage on slippery road surfaces. Handling and driveability both are improved.
A new-generation four-wheel ABS system has been added to all 1998 Explorer models. Similar equipment has been standard since the 1993 model year, but the new design delivers improved control on wet or slippery surfaces, shorter stops in most conditions, and straighter emergency braking. Noise and vibration during ABS operation have been reduced.
The Explorer rack-and-pinion system has been altered with a new power boost curve and a different internal torsion bar. On-center feel is enhanced, and the vehicle responds predictably to the driver's steering commands.
Premium and Sport cloth-covered seats in Explorer have added foam for increased lumbar support and new sew styles for a fresh appearance.
Puddle lamps have been added as an entry aid with Explorer's remote keyless entry option on selected models. By pressing a key-fob button or the door-mounted keypad, outside mirror-mounted puddle lamps are lit. They stay on for 25 seconds or until the ignition is switched to the non-position.
The advanced SecuriLock passive anti-theft system from Ford has been added to all Explorer models for 1998. This effective deterrent immobilizes the vehicle if any attempt to start the engine without a specially encoded key is made. With 72 quadrillion possible code combinations, SecuriLock is virtually impossible to defeat. The National Insurance Crime Bureau has observed a 77-percent reduction in vehicle theft attributable to the system. The optional remote keyless entry system continues to include an alarm.
The major exterior change for 1998 is a new liftgate. The glass-release handle is larger for easier opening. The window also is larger for improved visibility. The liftgate can be opened with a push-button lock cylinder. Taillamps, license plate attachments, the high stop lamp, and name badges are new.
The wiper arm is redesigned for better cleaning with the spray nozzle relocated to the arm (wet arm design). In addition, the rear bumper is a one-piece design with a hitch-mounting surface built in. The gap between the bumper and the liftgate is reduced for better rear appearance.
Standard tinted glass is darker to reduce both interior glare and fabric fading in sunny conditions. Interior temperatures are reduced. For improved ventilation, a new flow-through design accepts fresh air through a cowl intake and circulates it through the interior and out by means of extractors mounted in the liftgate.
Explorer's floor consoles have been redesigned with new features for 1998. The version standard on XLT and Eddie Bauer and optional on XL and Sport trim levels has two new rear pull-out cup holders and a storage bin for six CDs and/or cassettes. Coin holder, flip-up armrest, and front cup holder features are unchanged. The console built into Limited models and Eddie Bauer, XLT and Sport models with some trim options also has CD and cassette storage.
Explorer Limited models and some Eddie Bauer editions have a new leather-wrapped, two-spoke steering wheel with duplicate audio and climate controls. Also standard in Limited and optional in Sport, XLT and Eddie Bauer models is a new MACH radio system with dual CD and cassette play capability. The volume setting is speed-sensitive (automatically increasing with road speed) and there are four speakers plus an 8-inch subwoofer. This radio's operation is integrated with a new optional cellular telephone so dialing and display functions are viewed through the radio faceplate. The cellular telephone can become portable via a special docking station feature. The audio is played through all speakers and the phone can be used in hands-free mode. The MACH radio also has Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) capability; it can seek radio stations by program type, display the type and name of the station playing, and can interrupt programming with traffic alerts.
A second alternative for Sport, XLT, and Eddie Bauer models is a premium radio system with four speakers, 80 watts of amplification, and the capability of playing 5-inch CDs, 3-inch CDs, and cassette tapes. This unit's face has a full-time clock, a mute button and selective lighting (only active buttons are lit at night). The premium sound system also has REDS capabilities.
The moonroof, which has been available in Explorers for some time, has a new one-touch-open capability. A momentary push of the rocker switch will move the glass panel to the full open position. A tilt-open mode for improved ventilation still is available.
A new option is a reversible rubber-backed cargo mat designed to permit carrying messy materials without damaging the carpet. A special lip design retains spilled liquids and an anti-slip surface helps resist cargo movement during cornering and braking. |
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