Explorer Coil-Over W/ Traction Bar?

[Kinnish]

I had a thought about my 98XLT. What if I were to put coilovers in the shockmounts and remove leaf springs by replacing them with traction bars. It seem like it theoretically should work.....

 

[coolchris]

in theory it looks like big $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

 

[Kinnish]

Any More Thoughts......It does seem feasible for a bout $400-500

 

[mrboyle]

The shock mounts couldn't handle the added stress.
A 2 link will have zero flex.
You would also have to figure out some form of track bar to keep the rear from moving side to side.

 

[james t]

im with mrboyle on this one. there is no way, no how that the stock shock mounts will support vehicle weight. furthermore, by getting rid of the leaves you would loose your stock lower shockmounts anyway. the twolink would have to be hella-long to give flex, and you would have to have a tack bar to keep the rear end located. for all that work/$$$, you could do a SFA and buy some superflex leaves for the rear like Rick has. also, a coilover as short as what you have in mind would not flex well at all.

 

[Kinnish]

I love to make ya'll think.....pure geniousness

 

[CoryL]

A trac-bar setup in the rear isn't so hot, but a 3-link wishbone or 4 link would be better. There are also serious issues with a link setup and the placement of the gas tank. You have to remove it to get the links right.

The length coilover you would need for good flex would require cutting through the floorboard so as to make new mounts.

You could do it, but not that cheap.