Got a new Sport and need some answers

[jclearman17]

I just purchased a 2001 Explorer Sport. I have had it about two weeks and have thoroughly enjoyed it, but I have one small issue to be resolved. It only has 40,000 miles on it, but I am wondering if it is time to replace the shocks. It is still bone stock. The thing is that I am not a real good mechanic and I have never claimed to know a lot about cars. I need to know if I should replace them and what would be the best replacement shocks for my Sport. The ride is just a little rougher than expected and I feel that it may be the shocks causing the problem. Plus I really like the site, it is awesome!!! PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!1

 

[yosh18981898]

The shocks should be fine at 40,000. I didn't replace mine until 100,000. As far as the rough ride, you may as well get used to it. There's a saying that goes something like this: "explorer sport will beat you to death". The rough ride is from the short (102 inch) wheelbase, and a suspension set up for off-road use. If you wanted a softer ride, you should have got the "grocery-getter four door" version which has an independant rear suspension (yours has a solid axle with leaf springs) that is basically useless for off-road, but the soccer moms love 'em. Don't worry though, you'll grow to love the rough ride, I did anyways. Welcome to the site and happy modding!

 

[huskyfan23]

Monroe Sensatracs are good. Ranchos and Edelbrock are better, but more expensive.

 

[IAmTodd]

I would replace the shocks. Anything is better than stock. I have the Edelbrocks. Yes the Sport ride is stiff. Even stiffer with 4-door leaf packs. But it corners as good as a freaken Mustang. I would highly recomend the Edelbrocks if you can shell out the $$ for them.

 

[jclearman17]

When ya'll say shell out the extra $$$. How much are we looking at?

 

[IAmTodd]

Edelbrocks are $70 a peice.

 

[Rebel4CSA]

I'm thinkin of putting Pro Comp MX6s on mine and they run about 360 for a set of 4

better?

 

[yosh18981898]

I hear Ranchos sag. I'm thinkin of putting Pro Comp MX6s on mine and they run about 360 for a set of 4

Shocks can't sag because they have nothing to do with holding the vehicle up. I took the shocks off my X and put new ones on without ever using a jack. The spring is what holds the vehicle up, the shock controls excessive spring movement. You can take a shock and easily "contract" it with your two hands. It's just that you can't make it move very fast, this is how it controls bounce and excessive spring movement.

Thats the way I've experienced it anyways......

 

[jclearman17]

Well one more question since you guys know your stuff. Are the Sports capable of towing small trailers if I needed to run to the Home Depot and pick up some lumber to fix my house up. Just need to know before I go and spend more money on a beater pickup for around here. Thanks

 

[yosh18981898]

That depends on what transmission you have.

If your is an auto it likely has the 5R55E, which is a five speed electronically controlled auto. With this transmission you can occasionally tow small trailors without worrying about it. However, if you want to tow regularly, or a bigger trailer, you'll have to get the factory tow package which includes a tranny cooler, among other parts.

If you have a manual transmission (these are rare, I am one of the privledged few and I LOVE it!!!!) It is a mazda M50D. These things are prettly strong little transmissions. They generally outlive the autos 2-1. I've done plently of towing with mine and never had a problem. I even towed a broken down (what's new?) jeep 20 miles for a friend, Many other people have towed with this transmission before without problems.

So my advice is this: you'll be fine this time either way, but if you have the auto, don't get too carried away with it.