Preparing for Off-Road

[lunchfist]

Hey guys, just had a quick question.
I have a 2001 XLT with the 4.0 SOHC, with 120k miles on the truck. I'm hoping to hit some mud with my friends before winter hits, i just was wondering: What should i upgrade before i sink my truck in the mud? I know the truck is 11 years old, and i'm up to date on maintenance, except i haven't had the transmission flushed yet, and i need to do plugs and wires soon.

I've been hearing a lot about how the 5r55e is pretty weak.. so i was thinking of adding a transmission cooler, or upgrading it if it has one already (haven't looked yet) and then maybe do a k&n intake.

So basically... is there anything i should upgrade/replace ahead of time if i expect to do some mudding/off roading?

all input is welcome
thanks again!

 

[alohamonte]

what kind of tires are you using?

bring recovery equipment. mud and stock explorers dont mix well.

bring an extra air filter.

and since youre going with buddies, make sure at least one of you is out of the mud at all times to act as a recovery vehicle.

 

[mounty71]

Transmission cooler is a good idea on any vehicle with a weak transmission, whether or not it's going offroad. If you're planning on going mud bogging with it, my advice is to not. It's just silly. Did that 10 years ago in high school, and wish I never did. I avoid mud as much as possible now.

For actual offroading, the 3 biggest recommendations from me in order of importance are 1) a crossmember between the rear lower A-arm mounts, 2) weld washers around all of the lower control arm pivot holes, and 3) an upper control arm mount gusset kit. These 3 additions will help maintain the integrity of the frame, and are some of the best things I've ever done to improve my truck.

 

[Sedition]

There is a breather pipe for the transmission down low near the pan, attach a hose and run it up somewhere where it won't suck water in. The 5R55e already has 2 coolers and in my experience it can take some punishment, but like any trans they hate water and running hot will burn ATF so make sure your engine fan kicks in when it is supposed to.

Look at where your air intake is and modify it if you can. If you suck water in through your intake you will hydrolock your motor and will most likely cause some serious damage.

Once the Explorer runs out of ground clearance (It doesn't have much to begin with) and it is sitting on its belly you wont go anywhere so don't bother spinning your tires and digging yourself down more it just make it harder to pull out.

Be causious at first so you can just back out if you start to get stuck, then once you are confident tackle it with more speed.

Always go through water at walking pace, even if it is shallow, so many members on this forum have Hydrolocked their motor by running through water too fast or sinking it in water too deep.

Bring many long straps, shackles, high lift jack, hand winch or vehicle winch if you guys have one and a cell phone.

Enjoy your trip and try not to end it early with a Hydrolock

 

[AlexSport'00]

Only go in really shallow mud. I mean like 1ft max. You can drive through that as fast as you want (well, I have been driving as fast as I want through it...until I realized how under-prepared my vehicle is) and you should be fine. Just make sure your intake is sealed off somewhat. That stuff gets to it really easily.
I find dirt almost just as fun. Still the sliding and stuff that comes with mud, just less splashing. You just gotta find the right stuff. Like construction sites are a no-no....well getting caught is a no-no, haha, they often times have some fun spots, just be careful. Have fun!

 

[LONO100]

biggest upgrade to make in my opinion is a new set of mud tires. and just my opinion again but i never hit the trail intentionally looking for mud. im not saying not to do it, but if you do make sure you do it in a smart way where you wont destroy your motor with h20, make sure you bring all the recovery gear you can, and wash all that crap off as soon as you get the chance before it destroys your rig. im talking body, underside, suspension parts and engine bay.

also, one more tip, whenever i hit any trail without a group that isnt an OHV park i always bring food, water and camping gear just in case you stranded. its happened to me before.

 

[AlexSport'00]

OHV park

*first thought* THEY HAVE PARKS JUST FOR MY ENGINE??? WHOA!!!

 

[lunchfist]

Awesome info guys, thanks for all the tips! All we really have around here are some b-level roads :/