2008 Limited Explorer

[vince86gt]

Hi guys, I was wondering if anyone knew if there are stock suspension differences across trim levels of the same year? My 2008 Limited V8 handles terribly, tons of body roll. I have driven other Eddie Bauer & XLT's that handle far superior to mine. I also have the V8 option, not sure if that changes factory springs/shocks. It is even more uncontrolable while cornering, and having a dip, versus a bump, if you have the truck planted half decently, w/o even a high rate oof speed, any subtle difference in road, a dip, etc, cause a ton of suspension travel that upsets it tremendously. Seems like mostly the rear suspension. I now have 52k, bought it at 33 k, and seems like it is a lot worse. It rides really well otherwise, and comfortably, even over bumps. Is it merely a matter of sacrificing ride versus handling?

Thanks for any input!

 

[waskly]

no they all handle the same, you probably have worn suspension parts.

rear struts do blow out, as the front. could just be worn steering parts, etc.

 

[vince86gt]

wow, already? The ones i drove all had more miles too, and it didn't seem to just happen, seems like i noticed it 19k miles ago. mine seems to wallow back and forth, giving a good torso workout while driving, seems like each side of truck is in a constant tug of war. Even when the road isn't that bad.

 

[El Duque]

Were these Eddie Bauer & XLT models the same as yours? What I mean is, did they have independent rear suspension? I have a 2010 EB, and previously had an '08 and 1999 EB. I think the '99 actually handled better than the newer models, maybe because of the solid rear axle. But the '99 definitely had less body roll.

 

[pjw73nh]

Vince86gt,

I have a 2008 V8 69k (see sig). I (supposedly) have a full mechanical history on the vehicle from birth to when I bought it 63k. There is no mention of suspension or chassis parts that I can find that have been replaced.

My LTD handles extremely well. Rides beautifully, nothing loose. Very little if any body roll. It is very tight and very responsive. Not sports car tight, but tighter than I would have expected for a vehicle of this size & weight.

I do have the factory trailer tow package which has it ride a bit higher and stiffer, but I really like the handling of it. I tow a 5300 LB trailer and it does very well. I don't go over 60 with the trailer and I don't "push the envelope". Does a fine job.

I think you may have something wrong with it. I'd have a look-see at the chassis and steering/ suspension parts. Tires maybe?

Hope this helps.

P.../NH

 

[Town]

I have driven my son's 2007 Explorer EB with the V8 and it rides and handles very well. It has 96,000 miles and the suspension and driveline appear original.

He has a tandem trailer that is pulled with ease, and the ride and handling are not affected.

As others have mentioned your vehicle must have defective parts. It would not be expensive for a shop to check the suspension for you.