Multi part question. Please help. (tires, suspension, lift, diff)

[DocVijay]

My Pirelli Scorpions are wearing out, so I'm thinking about replacements. I'd like to get something with a bit more sidewall and a more aggressive offroad tread. Now I have 17" wheels and really really don't want to get new wheels. Can I get some 275/70 R17 (Goodyear Wrangler MT/R) tires? Will they fit under my X with a stock suspension? If not, can I just do a TT in front and maybe move some spacers in the back to get a bit of lift to fit them? Otherwise, who makes a mild lift kit for my 99 Sport (about 2")? What about a body lift?

Next, would I have to replace my shocks if I do a small lift? I have the Edelbrocks (standard size, not the lowered size). I see that they now have a set for lifted vehicles, but for 3-4" lifts.

Next, I'd also like to replace the diff with on of those Powertrax diffs. How does it affect driving? I'm used to tearing around corners, but with a pregnant wife now, and later a baby, I drive much more conervatively. I've heard that turning corners is a bit different after installing the diff. Also, how much will it help traction in my 2WD?

Thanks for your help.

 

[JDraper]

I'll go for the Powertrax question. For offroading, it was GREAT. For on road, I really didn't improve my performance at all, but then again, I have the auto 4WD system. For 2wd applications, you will be able to launch off the line MUCH better! The powertrax does change the handling slightly when cornering. On the open highway, it's not really noticeable at all. On the twisty roads, you occasionally get a "clunk" out of the rear, and occasionally a tire will squeal. I have also noticed a slight "twitch" to the rear if I am coasting through a gentle turn and then apply the power. What you feel is the rear causing both wheels to turn at the same speed, which subtly changes the direction the torque is applied to the vehicle. When turning sharp corners from a stop sign or stoplight, it can be very noticeable. If you are sitting straight and then turn as you pull out, you usually squeal one tire. This can be overcome by how you approach the corner. If you turn in slightly just before stopping, it releases the lock and you don't get the squeal. As for traction, it's night and day!!! The powertrax makes a HUGE difference. The only time I kinda wished it weren't there is when I was on a road that was angled towards the side in the snow. Since both wheels drive, the truck wants to dance sideways a little if you break traction.

 

[jasonb]

you don't really need to replace your shocks for a small lift like 2", but OME makes a shock for the explorer designed for the 2" lift. you could do the TT up front and add shackles in the back.. or go with the OME springs. they are arched for 2" in the rear and designed for the TT up front. you can also extend your shocks if you really want. i don't know much about this, but i know people do it without any problems.
i didn't figure up what size tire that is you mentioned.. but you can fit a 31" tire under there without any lift. i can on my sport at least.
as far as tires.. i like my BFG All Terrians, but i will likely get something more aggressive next time. i'm on about 40k on them and they are in great shape still. looks like i could get another 20k out of them at least. they are pretty aggressive for an all terrain tire and handle well too. good enough for light duty offroading at least.

a traction device such as the powetrax would help you offroading. alec runs a eaton posi (i think) in his 2wd and he likes it from what i can tell. the powertrax no-slip unit is kind-of known as a street friendly locker comparred to others. i don't have one, but i'll be getting one in the near future.

but wait... i thought that nice new i-drive was your offroad vehicle?

 

[jimbo74]

that tire size works out to be a 32.2" tire according to www.4lo.com if it were my truck, i would do the tt/shackles along with a little bit of trimming and definately get the powertrax

 

[DocVijay]

Yes, it is 32.2" for those tires. The shackles for a 2" lift I should be able to get at most auto parts stores, right? Also, can I get 2" out of the TT?

Also, what about the speedo. The Scorpion Zeros are virtually identical to the stock in diameter. Can I just take my X to Ford and have them reset the speedo to be accurate. I often drive with my GPS anyway so I know my speed, but it's just a matter of convenience to have the speedo be accurate.

I think I'll definitely go witht he Powertrax diff. I've heard plenty of good things about them.

Thanks for the resonses. I have some planning to do. Anyone else have any ideas?

 

[DocVijay]

One other thing, as I have a 2WD, I have no CV-joints. The ionly think even remotely CV like is the steering arms which have similar rubber boots. Is there any chance of hurting the steering witha 2" TT lift like there is for the CV-joints?

 

[jasonb]

you should be plenty fine with 2" with your 2wd.