1996 Ford Explorer

SUV

5.0

Automatic

1fmdu32p0tza87119

Clear

Gasoline

This is a very nice and very original 1996 Ford Explorer Centaurus raised roof conversion. From my research, it's one of 208 made. The bones of it are a very nice Explorer XLT 2WD 5.0 V-8 with only 57700 miles, the conversion includes the raised roof which serves as a haven for a small tv screen, a vhs player, a game system hook up, and an addition Sony sound system with headphone jacks, a rear mounted 6x9 speaker, mood lights, cassette storage and some other goodies. It also includes upgraded leather on the seats, special front and rear bumpers, running boards and bodyside cladding. I will walk you around it and describe it as I see it. There is a video of me driving it available on my youtube channel as "seacrow" ExteriorThe paint on all of the metal body is in great condition. No signs of any accident damage, no rust anywhere. It was purchased new here in Bradenton, Florida and spent most of it's life here as a third car for a retired couple. The lower body cladding has been touched up and the raised roof really should be repainted. There are a couple of splits in the rear plastic bumper cover. The drivers side headlight has a crack but doesn't leak. The pinstripes are getting a little worn and thin. There is a trailer hitch and wiring. Some of the black trim has some slight sun damage. However, with that said, it looks very nice and presentable. In fact people say it looks almost new. The tires are in great shape and the wheels are nice with just a couple of scuffs in the clear coat. I would rate it a 6 out of 10 InteriorThe interior is really in very good condition for a 21 year old Explorer. Only the drivers seat shows signs of wear and it's minimal. Everything works great! Gauges, lights, VCR, TV, A/C is cold, heat works perfect, all power windows, locks, seats, lumbar controls, everything works as new. The stereo sounds good too, both of them. There are a couple of coffee type stains on the carpet that could be cleaned. The passenger front and rear seat are like new. The door panels are nice. It has the original retractable cargo cover that works perfect. The slightly cheesy woodgrain trim add ons on the dash are getting pretty aged and the front most corner of the headliner is starting to let go. There is a tear in the center console armrest material. Virtually all of the signs of use are isolated to the drivers seat area. It was a non-smoker vehicle, no bad smells or leaks. The interior is very presentable. I would rate it a 6 out of 10 MechanicalThis is where this old girl shines. With only 57K original miles, the 5.0 V-8 runs smooth and strong. The transmission is rock solid. We installed new ball joints, front and rear brakes, front and rear shocks, full tune up and a new battery. It starts right up and drives beautifully. The tires are a little noisy due to the tread design but not it's not bad. The only flaw is that the ABS light will come on for a day or two then go off for a week and come back on. I suspect it may be the ABS module, but it does it so infrequently, I just haven't dug in to it yet. Mechanically I would rate it a 9 out of 10. OverallEven though this is just an Explorer, it's pretty rare and a true survivor. It's a very interesting SUV with a rock solid and desirable drive train. As far as older Explorers go, this is probably one of the best to have and dare I say, possibly collectible. It includes the original floormats, headphones, and owners manuals for the TV, VCR, and Sony cassette player. It also has one original key with the original keyless entry keyfob and two other keys that I have yet to find a use for, possibly the spare tire or some hidden compartment. This is a great Explorer that could be driven anywhere. If I had a use for it, I would keep it. Please watch the video and ask any questions that you may have. Disclaimer. This is a used vehicle and I have disclosed every flaw that I am aware of. Please don't expect a brand new car. I am an auto enthusiast and I treat people how I want to be treated. I wouldn't hesitate to let my mother or kids drive this Explorer anywhere, It's a good one but it is 21 years old. Thanks and happy bidding!