That being said, common recommendations for that era Explorer V8 often include:
* 5W-20: This is a common recommendation for many modern vehicles, including some from that era, especially in milder climates.
* 5W-30: A slightly thicker oil, often preferred in hotter climates or for older engines that might have slightly more wear. This was also a common recommendation for some 2003 Explorer V8s.
Never use an oil grade outside the range specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong grade can damage your engine. Again, check your owner's manual.