How to lower an EX with IRS????

[Big Green]

I have been wanting to lower my 02 xlt non-4 wheel drive about 2 inches, but I am having trouble finding kits to do it. Are there any differences when lowering a IRS compared to a live axle? Any help is appreciated.

NOTE: I dont know much about Suspensions, so go easy.

 

[jimbo74]

you cant lower the explorers with the irs.. plain and simple... you can lower the front independent suspension..... but you cannot lower the rear as there is a hole that has an axle that runs through the frame.....

 

[Big Green]

What about this EX?

This appears to be lowered at least 1 1/2 inches.

Definately not stock height, Ive seen other explorers 02-up that have been lowered. How'd they do it?

 

[gavin]

is the IRS a coil spring setup or what?

 

[X~FACTOR]

www.explorerexpress.com has now have the kit to lower 3rd Generation Explorers. Ask for JOHN V. he'll take care of you.

 

[Hartman]

Ground Force makes a kit that lowers 02+ about 2 inches.

 

[Rick]

Explorer Express is now or soon will be carrying adjustable coil over shocks for the '03. These were introduced at SEMA last year.

 

[JOHN V.]

We carry the Ground Force lowering springs ($198.99) at Explorer Express. We also have the hardware required to perform the alignment after the springs are installed. These are good for about a 1.5" drop. The adjustable shock/spring combo that we saw at the SEMA show are still not available yet. There are currently no replacement shocks out that we know of.

 

[JOHN V.]

We also carry this rear stabilizer bar for the 2002-2003 Explorers $129.95. This is actually a transverse leaf spring that install over the existing independent rear suspension. This piece works well and installs easy. It firms up the ride, reduces body roll and generally tightens up the suspension. It does raise the rear end slightly, but I think it is worth it for the improved handling.

 

[aldive]

Originally posted by jimabena74
you cant lower the explorers with the irs.. plain and simple...

Simply inaccurate.

 

[Hartman]

Very inaccurate.

 

[Yomie]

Originally posted by aldive
Simply inaccurate.

Exactly what i was thinking

 

[Big Green]

I sure am glad there are people here that know enough to step in and interject when incorrect information is given. Would lowering my x reduce the life of any parts, shocks, swaybars, or suspension and chassis in general? I really like the look of the newer explorers when lowered, and yet they are still driveable.

John V. Are the lowering springs a direct drop in replacement, or would I need to perform other installs at the same time?

 

[JOHN V.]

You only need to install the washers (Ford part) in order to adjust the camber (alignment) after the springs are installed. We have the springs & washers in stock.

 

[TravisC]

That is a sweet X. Nice, clean and not overly done.

 

[Big Green]

And these springs are available now? I want to buy them but need to get some other stuff paid off first. How will lowering my X effect the ride quality, and handling?

 

[Hokie]

Originally posted by Big Green
How will lowering my X effect the ride quality, and handling?

Ummm... should improve both, depending on your personal preference towards 'ride quality'. I'll bet John V's springs are progressive rate, so the ride quality should be quite good.

 

[aldive]

I love the of my lowered '99. I used the EE kit; everythiung fit and was relatively easy to install.

 

[Big Green]

What does progressive rate mean? What other kind of springs are there?