Need Advice:Looking to buy Explorer that needs a little work

[Nox]

I am looking for an older Explorer for my son. Something cheap that needs a little work (say in the $3k ballpark). Any advice on what to avoid? (engine type, 4x4, ect). I know transmissions are aways a gamble, but engine repair wise, Im not too afraid of. The way Im thinking is anything in that price range is probably near some significant repair, so why not find one that already needs it at a reduced price and just plan on doing the repair with my son since he is very motivated to learn. If any of you have rebuilt or done serious engine repair on these vehicles, Id love to hear from you because sometimes what seems like a fun project can turn not to be...well...not so fun.
I know this is a rather general question, but any advice would be appreciated.

[MagicRat]

$3k should be plenty of money to buy a good one.

Remember, the used-car market has changed drastically in the past couple of years. SUV's, especially the larger ones are now as popular as plutonium. Nobody wants them (except you and me it seems) so prices are depressed. Sometimes, people will ask a relatively high price, but its rare that they will get it. If you look around a bit you can find someone who is relatively desperate to sell and is willing to take a low offer.

Last summers cash trade-in program did harm the used-car market a bit by removing many decent used cars from the market, thus driving up prices a bit. But as time goes by, prices will realign to a more reasonable value.

One more thing.... why do you specifically want an Exploder? When I go shopping for an old, cheaper car I look for the best possible dea (ie: best condition and lowest mileage for the money)l, and not for any specific brand. So, perhaps you might want to keep an eye out for cheaper Blazers, Cheokees etc, and not just the Explorer (although imho I like the explorer best)

Also, look here: www.carsurvey.org. It's an excellent site for getting a handle on some common problem areas for these vehicles.

[Jacfourteen]

I have the perfect one for you! here are some links for you to look at:http://s256.photobucket.com/albums/h...xplorer%20XLT/ This is a album of some pics I took today (I'm gonna add some of the interior as soon as I get all my junk out of it)
http://www.vehix.com/inventory/Vehic...688&owner=true And this is the ad that I put on vehix.com yesterday. It says $3200 but I'd take $3000. Anyone else feel free to buy it from me!