I said touch the radiator, not the exhaust manifold I am not familiar with explorers[or "exploders" as they were called in the trade] But if as Nanker Say's it has a electric fan [unusual in a RWD vehicle] yes, ck it as he said. Should come on at about 220 degrees. T-stat easy to check. Start it cold and put your hand on the upper rad hose[i shudder to recommend this in your case ] When the T-stat opens the hose will suddenly go from cold to hot.