does the AWD 5.0 engine package work well without 4-lo?

[Nitrous SSC]

Sorry if this post isn't in the right spot...but i'm a little new

I'm looking at explorers this next week for a winter/client/wheeling SUV ....

I found one that I love but i've noticed its a 5.0 package with AWD....I noticed it does not have a 4-low....it has alot of Torque but I'm concerned....I'd use 4-low alot wheeling and hill climbing....will this kill good off roading??....also there is a switch on the dash that says onroad and offroad ride control....does that do anything else other than strut firmness??

Thanks

 

[Nitrous SSC]

TTT

anyone???

 

[Mike]

I have a v8 with AWD and i love it... i have had no problems... i have also pulled out many trucks with 4-low while on the beach... i think the v8 is great..

Mike

 

[Nitrous SSC]

I just hope I'll have enough power in that 5.0L to make up for not having a 4-low....we do some harsh wheeling around here...

Anyone have highly suspension/offroad modded 5.0 AWD's??

 

[section525]

You just gotta figure out what you'll want/need more. The V8 or the 4Lo. The awd is still pretty capable. If you're mainly going to use it on icey roads or sand and such.. you'll have no probs with the awd. But for hardcore offroading... you might want to look into the 4Lo. Or you can convert for AWD to 4WD for under 2k!

 

[Nitrous SSC]

Converting it to 4wd from AWD....I have moderate mechanical experience....changed the Tranny on my stang 4 times ....is it a pretty simple bolt on to change stuff over?...if its possible to get a 4low in that puppy then I'll definatly get the 5.0 then......section525 do you have a website?

Thanks for the posts....i'm just a little scared...I know if i get the V6 i'll get the 4-low...but i know i'll kick myself in the ass for not getting the V8.....the explorer will eventualy pulling my stang when it becomes a total race car

 

[section525]

A member by the name of stadx2 did the awd to 4wd conversion. Search for his username and you'll find some threads about it. He said he did it for somewhere around $1400 I think.

He used a Control Trac T-case from a V6 X and an Advanced Adapter to mate the V8 tranny to the V6 tcase. The only thing you may not be able to do yourself is change the output shaft in the tranny.

You can click on the "My V8 '96 Explorer Website" in my signature for my site!

 

[liquidx9]

that switch is for an air ride suspension, so im assuming its a 97 or older explorer.... it lifts the suspension between 1 and 2 inches, useful for offroading, no problems with my v8 AWD