Market Position:
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2008 was positioned as a versatile mid-size Sport Utility Truck (SUT), blending SUV comfort with pickup truck utility.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Avalanche, Honda Ridgeline, and other mid-size SUVs and smaller pickup trucks, offering a unique bed configuration.
Key Features:
Integrated cargo bed, SUV-style interior, available V8 engine, rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Provides the identical information used by Ford dealerships and authorized service centers, enabling accurate and efficient servicing.
Coverage Areas:
All repairs, servicing, and troubleshooting procedures.
Specific Coverage Areas:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Transmission, Drivetrain, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, ABS, Wheels and Tires, Body and Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical Systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Fuses and Relays, Wiring Diagrams.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as 'very detailed').
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Type Description:
A comprehensive factory-level guide essential for any owner or technician performing maintenance, diagnostics, or repairs.
Usefulness:
Indispensable for DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, and fleet maintenance.
Systems Covered:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system, HVAC, body, chassis, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, maintenance.
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step repair instructions, routine maintenance, diagnostic flowcharts, component removal and installation, adjustments, specifications, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, overhaul procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, interior component disassembly and reassembly.
Technical Depth:
Professional level, suitable for mechanics and technicians, covering routine to advanced repair and diagnostics.
Diagrams And Photos:
Includes hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams to guide users through complex procedures.
Primary Engine Options:
4.0L V6 SOHC (207 hp @ 5300 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm) and 4.6L V8 SOHC (292 hp @ 5500 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm).
Engine Code V8:
4.6L V8 (3-valve modular)
Engine Horsepower:
207 hp (V6), 292 hp (V8)
Engine Torque:
235 lb-ft (V6), 300 lb-ft (V8)
Torque Curve Notes:
V8 engine offers a broader torque band for improved towing and hauling.
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Wheelbase:
125.9 inches (3200 mm)
Length:
209.4 inches (5319 mm)
Width:
72.2 inches (1834 mm)
Height:
71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 8.5 inches (216 mm).
Cargo Bed Length:
50 inches (1270 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
4,420 lbs (2005 kg) (4.0L V6 RWD)
Curb Weight Max:
4,756 lbs (2157 kg) (4.6L V8 4WD)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,500 lbs (3,400 kg) when properly equipped.
Max Payload Capacity:
Approximately 1,260 lbs (572 kg).
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control), Traction Control.
ABS System Type:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available rear-seat side airbags, three-point safety belts.
Infotainment System:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, Sirius Satellite Radio, and optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Available premium sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional rear parking assist.
Connectivity Options:
Optional SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system (introduced later in production or as an option).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe duty intervals.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V8:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 2.5 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type V6:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified.
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium All-Season Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Ford Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Differential Fluid Type Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-140 (for limited slip, use with friction modifier if specified).
Transfer Case Fluid Type 4Wd:
MERCON LV.
Known Issues:
Potential for ignition coil failure, exhaust manifold cracking (especially V8), occasional transmission solenoid issues, and rust on frame components.
Brand Heritage:
Ford has a long history of producing rugged and versatile SUVs and trucks, with the Explorer line being a significant contributor since its introduction in 1990.
Model Evolution:
The Sport Trac, introduced for the 2001 model year, was Ford's first dedicated SUT. The 2008 model represents the second generation (UG), which debuted for the 2007 model year, offering a more robust chassis and updated styling based on the larger Explorer platform.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with the Ford Explorer SUV, offering a unibody construction (unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks).
Production Location:
Louisville, Kentucky, USA (Ford's Kentucky Truck Plant)
