Synthetic oil better than regular for 200,000+ mile '98 Explorer?

you will not necessarily have a leak with switching to synthetic. that is a huge myth that i wish would go away. a synthetic oil will generally have better cleaning additives which will clean up and buildup that have been masking a leak. try running an AutoRX cycle as mentioned on http://www.bobistheoilguy.com./ ive switched 2 cars with over 100k miles on them to synthetic and had no problems whatsoever.

It sounds like it would be a good idea with as many miles are on your Explorer. Go out and look for oils that are specifically made for a vehicle with a lot of miles and are I believe all synthetic. It's gonna cost you a little more but it will help keep your car from oil residue build up in the motor.

Changing oil and filter frequently is more important than going to a synthetic.

DON'T change to synthetic oil. All the old gaskets on the oil pan, valve covers, timing chain cover, front and rear main seal will ALL leak.

I would keep using what got you to 200,000 miles.