Lowest Opening '96 XLT

[ExplorerDude123]

I've planned to go off-roading with a few friends this weekend, and I want to find out where the lowest opening is on a stock 1996 Explorer XLT. In other words, how deep is too deep when it comes to water and mud? THANKS!

 

[lilbeefy]

I have had mine buried up just past the fog lights with minor problems, belt started slipping caused my alt light to come on, fixed itself within a few minutes. I have also plowed through water up to the headlights and she kept on going. but each vehicle is a little different especially when it comes to how they run mechanically.

 

[gluvsave35]

thats about the same as mine^^^^^

 

[explrths]

^^^ bout the same, ive taken it to the headlights but had to go slow

 

[chspyder]

Seen some hit a puddle and die, so be careful.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

The vent tube for the front diff is right at the frame rail on the drivers side- but I had mine in water last weekend, got water in both diffs- what a pain. Any water is too deep for me from now on. Now, mud, thats different IMO.

 

[ExplorerDude123]

alright sounds good. does anyone know what opening is the problem so that i could make a little snorkel for this weekend?

 

[ExplorerDude123]

oh ok, the diffs...is that something i can tube up to a higher level, or does it need to be in that position to get its air?

 

[chspyder]

You can tube them all the way up, they dont need to breath a lot, so just match the tube size and dont pinch it and leave room for axle travel and you will be fine, but still water gets into hubs and other places, I really dislike water, mud is better unless it is soupy.

J

 

[AMMO_HOOAH]

I found that the Gator back belts really help with the belt slipping when wet. I'm in Florida and my stock belt would slip just driving down the road during a heavy rain.