Gen 2

[patrleach]

Just found this great forum and as a new XLT owner I'm glad I did. My first of many questions is: I have seen post talking Gen 1 and Gen 2. What is the difference and what are the cut off dates? I did a search but couldn't find the answer. BTW, I have gotten a bunch of questions answered already and haven't even had to post.

 

[Sbyrne97]

Gen 3

Well according to your Signature, you have neither gen 1 or 2 you have gen 3. Gen 1 goes from 1991-1994 Gen 2 1995-2001 - Gen 3 2002-2005 Gen 4 2006+ the way you can separate all four are, well first off gen 1 and 2 are smaller length wise 2002 added 2" to the rear to add 3rd row seats.

Gen 1 has a flat grill and head lights also a more truck style dash, while gen 2 has a curve at the grill and a newer looking dash than before

Gen 3 and Gen 4 are similar but the newer ones have more chrome and have different head lights and bumper. One way to separate Gen 3 and 4 is Gen 4 has the shifter on the center console where all previous years use one mounted to the steering wheel, there is a technical word for it but i forgot. Also gen 3 and 4 have IFS+IRS while Gen 1 and 2 have IFS and Solid Rear Axle

 

[Hitchhikingmike]

Correct me if I am wrong, but I thought the the gen1 had solid front and rear axles, while the gen2 has solid rear axle and IFS.

Right?

 

[410Fortune]

gen I =

dana 35 ttb front suspension (twin torsion beams)
8.8 solid rear axle, leaf sprung

gen II =
Dana 35 IFS, torsion sprung upper and lower control arms, CV axles
8.8 Solid rear axle, leaf sprung

never had a solid front axle in the Ranger or Explorer

 

[patrleach]

Thanks guys I thought it was something along those lines. I am going to really enjoy this site.