Three problems related to tank assembly have been reported for the 1997 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rubber seal on fuel tank cap failed causing check engine light to illuminate. Diagnosis and replacement of fuel tank cap $110. Seal on cap was torn. This was the second failure. First failure occurred while vechile was under warranty.
Coming out of garage smelled fuel. Popped the hood, and could see gas squirting out of carburetor. Contacted dealer, and had a local mechanic replace the fuel tank assembly.
When filling tank with gasoline, it does not take the last 4 gallons. The dealer said that this is due to pressure from the gas vapors. If filling vehicle very slowly, gasoline would take. 98 model has this problem corrected, owner believes Ford to correct the 97 model. . Et.