entoptics
Member
- Joined
- November 8, 2007
- Messages
- 16
- Reaction score
- 0
- City, State
- Pac NW
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2000 XLT SOHC
Hello all, Just picked up a new to me 2000 XLT with the teeny tiny engine (OHV I think). Got it for free from an uncle, and despite that, it's in FANTASTIC shape. 90K, superb working order, single owner, and EXTREMELY well cared for.
I have a few questions to ask, so I'll do that here first. I know exactly ZERO about the Exploder, and would appreciate any info and suggestions. Please keep responses nice and simple, I intent to use this thread as a base to start using the search function and making more focused threads in the future. For now, just treat me as the dumbest newb in the barn with the intention of sticking around for a few years.
I intend to use the new truck for 20% daily driving (I have a moto, so I rarely use a cage for anything nearby), 40% road trips with the wife, and 40% field work (geology in the desert). Hopefully, with a little bit of TLC and customization, the Exploder will be capable of 10 day interstate+gravel+jeep trail trips, and still be good for the occasional day to day grocery runs and disgustingly remote desert trails I encounter when working.
1) General cleanup and utility? I would like to reduce road noise (new weather stripping??), install a new stereo (nothing crazy), fabricate a sleeping platform (with rear seats down), and generally "abuse proof" the interior/exterior.
2) Offroad modifications that won't hurt interstate comfort? I'm concerned about toughness more than performance (stock explorer will take me where I need to go). I work in a remote and dangerous place. I don't need to get anywhere fast, I just need to get there and back every time without trashing my vehicle.
3) Suspension and payload? I have a hitch mount bike rack for my motorcycle (around 500 lbs total hitch weight). I want to mount an aftermarket receiver myself soon. I also want to stiffen up the rear suspension for hauling bike/work/camping stuff without sacrificing the comfort when not hauling. Are the adjustable air shocks useful or is there no way to compromise?
Anyway. Good to meet you all, and hope to hear from you. I suspect I'll be around for another 75 thousand miles.
I have a few questions to ask, so I'll do that here first. I know exactly ZERO about the Exploder, and would appreciate any info and suggestions. Please keep responses nice and simple, I intent to use this thread as a base to start using the search function and making more focused threads in the future. For now, just treat me as the dumbest newb in the barn with the intention of sticking around for a few years.
I intend to use the new truck for 20% daily driving (I have a moto, so I rarely use a cage for anything nearby), 40% road trips with the wife, and 40% field work (geology in the desert). Hopefully, with a little bit of TLC and customization, the Exploder will be capable of 10 day interstate+gravel+jeep trail trips, and still be good for the occasional day to day grocery runs and disgustingly remote desert trails I encounter when working.
1) General cleanup and utility? I would like to reduce road noise (new weather stripping??), install a new stereo (nothing crazy), fabricate a sleeping platform (with rear seats down), and generally "abuse proof" the interior/exterior.
2) Offroad modifications that won't hurt interstate comfort? I'm concerned about toughness more than performance (stock explorer will take me where I need to go). I work in a remote and dangerous place. I don't need to get anywhere fast, I just need to get there and back every time without trashing my vehicle.
3) Suspension and payload? I have a hitch mount bike rack for my motorcycle (around 500 lbs total hitch weight). I want to mount an aftermarket receiver myself soon. I also want to stiffen up the rear suspension for hauling bike/work/camping stuff without sacrificing the comfort when not hauling. Are the adjustable air shocks useful or is there no way to compromise?
Anyway. Good to meet you all, and hope to hear from you. I suspect I'll be around for another 75 thousand miles.