Two problems related to engine have been reported for the 2000 Ford Explorer Sport. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
No events led up to the crankshaft failure. Our 2000 Ford explorer was being driven as a daily routine trip in town. The car died at a stop light. I was able to restart the car . The car made a loud clunk. I drove the vehicle into a parking lot and shut it off. We had a certified Ford mechanic come out to look at the car. He was very familiar with this v6 engine. He stated to us that the crankshaft Ford used was a cast iron crank and not a forged steel crank. What happens is the crankshaft will develop cracks in it and eventually break apart. His comment was it was a bad idea and bad design by Ford. This mechanic worked for Ford for 18 years and stated that this particular engine was used from 1995-2001 and I believe he said it was a cologne v6 . Our 2 options at this point is to put in a new motor or junk the car. This vehicle is a 2000 Ford Explorer Sport 2 door. Two wheel drive. Dealer maintained at 30000,60000,and recently at 90000 miles . Current mileage is 91000. Oil changed every 2 months regardless. Maintenance records are all available. No reason for an important component like a crankshaft to crack and ruin the car.
Dealer had to replace engine after oil pressure dropped out without warning. Engine locked up before I could travel 1/4 mile to get off road. Ford motor company offered no help since engine had 39000 miles, 3000 miles over warranty.