Got a number of problems in 2002 Expolrer:

[racprops]

First There is a minor electrical problem where it eats the battery in 48 hours if left hooked up.

And there is a rumble in the wheels...or something. Sounds like the ruff edge they put on the edge of some freeways, not the tractor tread just the finer edge.

The only other problem I want to fix is to lower it about 6 inches.

I find two types of Struts, ones with a long thin post and ones without. What is stock and can I lower it from there??

I just want a good road truck, no off roading planed.

Thanks.

Rich

PS the first picture show how high it is, looks off to my eyes, is it??

 

[Mbrooks420]

You’ll need to test each circuit for amp draw to find where to start for your electrical issue.

You likely need wheel bearings for the rumbling.

6 inches is probably WAY to much to lower it. There won’t be an off the shelf option for such a drop. I assume you are 2wd?

 

[racprops]

Thanks, yes 2 wheel. It looks high as it sits, so I am hoping it is and getting back to stock and dropping it as far as possible and still have a good ride is my goal.

How much can I drop her??

Also my wife hates the alarm, is it possible to turn it off and keep the other remote systems?

Rich

 

[Mbrooks420]

What do you mean by alarm, the auto arm function? I believe you can disable that(you can on a second gen)

I don’t think it looks that high. Lowering and ride quality don’t go together as you are going to surely lose spring travel to do it. Look for a set of lowering springs, those will dictate drop.

 

[racprops]

Yours looks lower...most pictures I see they look lower, and this one has a one size larger tire as well 245 in stead of a 235...

Is the instructions on the alarm in the ower's manual?

Thanks for your help, I am new to this truck.

Rich

 

[Mbrooks420]

My truck in the picture is a second gen, so it’s not comparable. I’m also loaded with 600+ pounds, have tires that are 2 sizes bigger.

Third gens have a lot of wheel well, that’s why 32s fit much easier than a second gen. I’d fill the wheel wells with larger tires vs trying to lower it a lot. I think the very max is likely to be 3”

 

[racprops]

My mistake....well my wife likes being up high with the other trucks...Any way to improve the stability? At speed lane changes it can be a little twitchy.

Rich

 

[racprops]

Will the anti-sway heavy duty bars from a 2003 Ford Crown Vic fit and help handling??

 

[Mbrooks420]

I really doubt it. If your struts are worn out new ones will help it handle better. I’m not sure there’s much if any performance handling aftermarket available for these trucks.

 

[Argentimage]

You have more problems
Take it to a qualified mechanic

You can do 90 safely

The other thing is you bits and piece the forum so you get that for help

Your wife’s complaint about the alarm

What about it?

These are quiet systems. In the background... UNLESS. You have an aftermarket

Or that is part of your electrical problem

How old is the battery?
Three years ??? Get a new one iits trash

 

[Mbrooks420]

I wouldn’t just buy a battery without verifying there’s not an electrical issue. Great way to ruin a new battery.