Ford Explorer as a capable trail/climb rig?

Okay guys I'll cut to the chase. I want a toy I can drive to the off-road park, beat on a little bit, and drive back home. I have a nice '99 explorer 4x4 as my "daddy ride" that my wife bought new and I can't bring myself to abuse it. So, I have been scouring Craigslist and all of the Jeep owners think they are dipped in gold considering their asking prices for ragged out junk. However, I have found some nice first gen explorers for less than $1,000. I'm not looking to drop loads of money into one but with a nice lift and bigger tires, can these be capable off road rigs for the occasional rock climbing/trail riding? I'm looking at the first gens because of the coil spring front-end.

 

[unclemeat]

Hell yea! Spacer lift, add a leaf and 3-inch body lift, perhaps some trimming and you can run 33s. Make sure you get on with 3.73 alxle ratio. I perfer manual transmission.

Traction devices rear locker, I have a tru-track limited slip in the the front.

The stock explorer is a tough truck, more durablde than a stock jeep of comprable year.

 

[mtm]

Thanks for the reply. I saw two in the weeds the other day I might ask about. One was a two door 5 speed and the other a four door auto. What kind of limitations do you have with your setup?

 

[Rick]

Check out the Feature Explorers on our old site www.explorer4x4.com It's mainly 1st gens with a few 2nd gens as well. Be sure you check out Gerald's 2nd gen: http://www.explorer4x4.com/gjarrett.html