Customer Reviews

Ford: Ranger/Explorer/Mountaineer 1991-97 (Total Car Care Series)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

I have been sorely disapointed in the entire series of the Chilton "Total Care " line of books. Many of us who purchase these manuals are familiar whith the much older Chilton manuals and these books are nothing like them. Often the books are under illustrated(or offer generic advice) and frankly do not even describe the same vehicle or it's components. I have been a professional mechanic for many years and cannot recommend this book for anyone who is serious about repairing their own vehicle. It will however suit those wishing merely to change their own oil and filter and perhaps the occasional (gasp) tire. The Haynes manual series is far superior in every resect for the more serious owner. Chilton professioanl products are still good but expensive and not readily available to the consumer.

Although the book is advertised as a repair guide for 1991-1997 Ford Explorers, the information for the later models is limited. Few of the drawings and none of the photographs reflect the 1995 through 1997 vehicles. I purchased the book in order to make repairs to my 1996 Explorer, and was truly disappointed with the quality of the instructions in relation to my vehicle.

If your serious about maintaining your own Explorer or Ranger, this book will frustrate rather than enlighten you. Not much more informative than the owners manual in the glove compartment. I wound up recycling mine. The diagrams and illustrations are inadequate and the instructions come up short. I you really want to maintain your engine and body you're going to have to spring for an OEM Service Manual.

As in the past, right after purchasing a new vehicle, I went out and bought the Chilton's book to help me out. I was not dissapointed in any of the info given throughout the book. I found all the specs I would need to take care of routine maintenance and some small repairs that I could tackle in the driveway. The non-mechanic can even get an insight into what a professional will be doing when he takes his car in for more extensive repairs. I suggest to anyone who buys a used car to get a Chilton's guide for it!

The product was not as advertised...it is torn, greasy, originally from a library, and NOT in the "good" condition I expected.