1995 explorer xlt junk it or build it voice now

[ldrxplr]

Hi everyone. I have been lurking around here for some time and this is one of my few post and would like so feedback. I have a 1995 explorer xlt with the 4.0ohv that I am undecided what I want to do with it. The engine is tired and rightfully so at 240k, the transmission and well almost everything else are just as worn. The transmission has only been out once to replace a broken band at 220k other than that it has the same milage as the truck. The only thing that is fresh is the transfer case that was rebuilt at 200k. Now her fate has been set by a failed power steering pump and rack failure. This is a norther ohio truck so it has some rust. Here is were I come to you folks. I love this truck but am looking at building a street strip car dont have anything yet just looking. Do you folks think I should go ahead and tear the truck down to bare frame convert to 2wd and drop in a built 5.0, I am still researching.
Or do you think maybe building it up high horsepower AWD, not sure if theres a ford setup that can handle strip abuse like a gmc syclone. I am a gm man till this truck
O thirdly and saddest thought r just send her to the yard in the sky
Come on all voice your opion, I have freinds near by that are cheering the lets see a 400rwhp explorer and willing to throw in help to achive it.
Be honset I can take it and I know the its yours do what you want but I wanted to hear others thoughts.

 

[jad2411]

Pics?

Fix it up! put the 5.0 in it

 

[Cobraguy]

If it has cancer very bad, it's time to move on, unless you're an accomplished body man and don't mind the time to cut it all out. Do like everyone else in the country does. Come here and buy what you want and get a totally rust free car. I see 50 year old cars all the time that don't have a single spot of rust on them.

 

[ldrxplr]

her cancers not bad. really only needs a passanger front fender and a drivers rear quater repair aroun the fuel door. and the rear inner wheel well but if i went drag the wheel well could just be fixed with a tub hehe. I got a freind thats will to replace the pannels for some drinks and time to hang out. main cost is painting wich i would do to any thing i build. will host some pictures here soon

 

[Paraphoe]

Doesn't sound too bad. She's treated you well all these years, return the favor - build the sumbitch.

 

[ldrxplr]

Well my digital camera is acting up here are some cellphone pics to hold you over

 

[ldrxplr]

Well im sad to say its not looking to good for her to survive much longer. I am looking to buy a home and well im going to need money for downpayments and repairs.

 

[trj360]

i'd say wait until you are in a better financial position to have a project vehicle, then get what you (possibly) really want - a 2wd 5.0