'98 XLT sags to the left

[guitarzan]

and alot around LH turn corners. Does this mean replace a leaf spring? shocks? both? Also, very rough ride. Incredibly bouncy on 35 North of Sandstone, MN! especially with my boat on the back.

 

[joecrna]

Front, back or both?

 

[dogfriend]

Springs support the vehicle. Shocks are used to "damp" out the response from the springs (minimize the extra bouncing).

So, based on your description of symptoms, you probably have a sagging rear spring that is causing the LH sagging. And you probably need to replace the shocks so that the ride isn't so bouncy when towing your boat.

You should also verify that the tongue weight of your boat doesn't exceed the allowable weight for the Explorer. Not likely unless the boat is pretty big, but it could explain the sagging spring if it is.

 

[guitarzan]

Good advice. thank you.

The sagging is in the back. What kind of leaf springs should I get if I want a smoother ride? I also will need to be able to tow my 3170 lb. pontoon + trailer.

 

[steventadams]

Try swapping your leaf springs with each other (right -> left and left -> right). The gas tank, driver, transfer case, and lots of other heavy things are on the left side of the truck so your left leaf starts to lose its arch before the right leaf.

You can do a search for "gangsta lean" too... Should give some hits

 

[Joe Dirt]

Gangsta Lean:

I'm sure it looks worse with my fatter ass in the drivers' seat.

 

[Turdle]

Yup
We have another gangsta

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=162963&highlight=gangsta