Do you mean the tires would break off if they stick out too far or the thread? The tires could be damaged if they are rubbed onto the chassis, steering components, etc. if this is what you mean by break off.
The Rancho lift kit costs me about $700, installation $800, gears (4.10) another $800 (parts & labor). Tires and wheels are extra and vary on types and styles. All costs are in 1995/1996.
It depends on what you want to do with the Explorer and how aggressive you want to be with it. Lift kits are available in 2.5" (Rancho, James Duff), 4" (Trailmaster, Superlift), 5.5" (Superlift), and probably more but I don't know them.
I could not install any of the kits by myself because I do not have all the specialized tools like the shops nor would I want to w/o the experiences of the shops' installers.
Once you start with the mods, there is no end in sight. I have invested over $5,000 in aftermarket parts on my '91 and it's only a lightly modified Explorer. Others with lockers, custom bumpers, tire carrier, suspension mods, etc. have spent probably twice/three times if not more. But it has been worth it for me!
Good luck in making your decisions.
BTW - A few of us Explorers are heading down to Hollister on June 26, 1999 to do a little 4wheeling. If you're interested, check out under the "Offroad Explorations" forum, there will be different Explorers with different kits so you can see from the mild (mine 2.5") to the wild (Ji/Tami's 5.5" and Mac's 5.5") set up. There will be a few other stock Explorers also.
[This message has been edited by kvo (edited 06-16-1999).]
