2003 Explorer Build Thread ($2500 goal Including the truck ) with links

[michaelHavok]

Since my WS6 is in the shop getting engine/transmission/suspension upgrades done (408 engine build, tick2 stage 2 transmission rebuild, koni sport 4/4 strano springs sways LCAs) I figured I'd see if I couldn't do a craigslist/junkyard.. budget friendly exploder build

Here's what we have to start with

2003 Ford Exploder.. found on craigslist, asking price was $3500/$3200..
across 2 listings that were between 25 and 45 days old

Odometer: 237059
Price Paid: $1000

-- Brand New 235/70/16 tires (less than 1000 miles)
-- New Interstate Battery
-- New Plugs/wires/Tailor Resistor Wires
-- Fresh Detail
-- Fresh Oil Change by a derp (this is important later)
(Interior is also close to Mint)

The guy who changed the oil, dumped oil ALL over the engine, it was smoking bad when it was pulled up and after the test drive. I looked it over and was confident it wasn't anything i couldn't fix (assuming it was like a valve cover gasket or something) so I offered $1,000 and he accepted it

So far I have ordered:

-- Black Lug nut set -- $31.22
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FPL06KI?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

-- Door Handle -- $13.46
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005CTD9XY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

-- Recliner seat control arm -- $17.95 (Have to paint it black)
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NS6C5G?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00

-- Tuff Hood support struts -- $23.00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QGFW3M?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01

-- Body Lift Blocks 3"x 3" -- $18.75 (1.5" Lift)
http://zoneoffroad.com/

-- Bolt Depot (various bolts) -- $22.27
https://www.boltdepot.com/

-- Series 7069, 16x8 -12 offset (x4) -- $428.33
http://www.4wheelparts.com/Wheels/S...?t_c=11&t_s=210&t_pt=100073&t_pn=PXA7069-6865


265/75r16 tires Installed -- $580.00

Flowmaster 2.5" exhaust setup (Piping/Muffler/Single cat set up -deleted 2 cats-) -- $180.00

Miscellaneous Expenses:
-- Full vehicle Diagnostic -- $97.37


Currently sitting at $2412.35, Going to list the stock wheels/tires online in hopes I can get about $500-$600 in order to be within range of where I wanted to be at with this vehicle

I'm trending slightly over budget as of right now, and I think I'd like to maybe do some 4.10 gears, but doesn't seem necessary at the moment.

Next steps with it are going to be:
-- front grill guard ($150)
-- Minor rear hatch repair (handle and crack on the center plastics)
-- Various audio upgrades ($300)
-- Putting the driver side windshield back on its track
-- 5% Tint ($250)


truck will NEVER be off roaded, just want a good looking daily that I can haul stuff around with while Im waiting for my car to get finishied (estimated sometime in February)

 

[Number4]

All that matters is that you have fun doing what you do. Enjoy!

 

[ScaryWoody]

I have a similar project. Mine is an 03 XLS. I upgraded the interior lighting to LED and added a Bull Bar to make it look tougher. I'll be painting the bumpers and have purchased a new rear panel applique to get rid of the Explorer crack.