Two problems related to diesel engine have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Consumer stated when vehicle was being started it sounded like a diesel engine, the engine light was appearing on the dashboard, consumer was informed that a new engine was needed, consumer states vehicle is now on its 3rd engine.
My '97 Explorer sport makes a diesely noise. I have seen many complaints on the Ford enthusiasts message boards. I have had several repairs done and it hasn't fixed the problem. I've heard belt tensioner, cat converter, heat sheild, lifters , bearings, arm rockers, and even rod knock. Ive also heard there was a batch of '96- early '98 explores made typically the sohc. I want some answers. I am fed up with having unnecessay repairs done to my truck. Please contact me.