Question: adding 20" wheels to 4x4

El Duque · August 31, 2014

I was looking for 20" OEM wheels for my 2008 4x4. I see that Ford only offered the 20" option for the AWD models. So, does anyone have any idea why that was? I was hoping that it wouldn't cause any issue with the 4x4 drivetrain. Thanks

Explorer_PL · September 1, 2014

I do not see why it would cause any issues. If you replace all 4 at the same time it should be just fine.

MNgopher · September 1, 2014

The 2006-2010 Explorer only came as a 2WD or 4WD. (granted it is a Auto 4WD system, but it still offers traditional part time 4x4 hi and lo) The AWD version of the Explorer is called the Mercury Mountaineer.

20" rims were an option starting with the 2008 Explorer I believe. You should not have any problem running them.

bender · September 8, 2014

last post is not entirely true, as the OP stated the explorers with the 20" factory wheels came with "AWD" not a true AWD but a single speed transfer case. I have an 08 with the 20s and it is AWD (basically control trac 4wd with no low range) but yes- there is an AWD badge on the rear gate. the 09/10 "sport" package with the 20s also were AWD.

OP - you can run them - no issues at all on a true 4wd - my buddy with an 08 eddie bauer 4wd put a set of the 20s on.

MNgopher · September 8, 2014

I stand corrected on the AWD - confirmed it myself with the old form brochures. My apologies. AWD was an option on the Explorer late 2008 and up with 20" rims. Odd that true 4x4 was not available from the factory with 20's.

That being said, they will fit fine. The overall diameter of the stock tire size on the 20's is virtually the same as the OEM tire size on the 18" rims.

El Duque · September 8, 2014

Hi guys, thanks for the info! What got me worried was something I read in the manual that said "if you have the optional 20" wheels, do not take the vehicle off-road" so since they only came on AWD models I thought something would get screwed up.

But after poking around on that, it looks like Ford only put that in the manual so that people wouldn't start showing up at dealers with smashed rims

Question: adding 20" wheels to 4x4

El Duque

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Explorer_PL

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MNgopher

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bender

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MNgopher

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El Duque

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