Rear End Sag on 2002 Explorer (leaf Springs)

[ExploderEd]

Wasn't sure where to put this post. The Explorer is all stock, but the rear end really bothers me, as all of the explorers I have seen do this. They seem to sag in the rear a bit. I was thinking of using a simple lift block setup to set it up a bit, at least level, if not a little higher.

Any opinions before I do this?

Thanks

EDIT: Wanted to add that it looks like a single spring setup, with some helper springs. Maybe Shackles and more helper springs? I am looking for a simply non-costly solution to this as the rest of this vehicle is mint. Not looking to go 4x4'n anytime soon, just level it out, maybe add an inch more than that for towing and tool hauling, so it doesn't look like I'm hauling lead weights in the back

Was also just reading about the 4-door leaf packs. Is this what i'm looking for? Seems to be. What would be the best year for me? I own a 2002 Ford Explorer 2Door Mono-Leaf.


Thanks again

 

[Karpiel73]

There are a couple options. Use the search button and you'll get bombarded with results.

I myself have a 4 door leaf pack out of a '96 explorer. Junkyard special for $45 for both leafs. When I installed them I just put the springs on opposite sides and got about 1.25" of lift if I remember correctly.

Lift blocks are out of the question because ours are spring under axle. In my opinion I would ditch the monoleaf and go for a four door leaf pack. Any second gen. explorer pack will work.

 

[ExploderEd]

Thanks, I'll do that right away!

 

[ExploderEd]

Quick last question..

Will the stock shackles continue to work with the 4-door pack?

 

[Karpiel73]

Yes they will.

 

[Joe Dirt]

If you're going stock shackles and yours are rusting, the dealers around here are selling them for like $30 for the pair...

 

[Karpiel73]

If you're going stock shackles and yours are rusting, the dealers around here are selling them for like $30 for the pair...

I just got a pair of stock shackles from a junkyard Sunday for $10, no rust at all. That's always an option also.

 

[ExploderEd]

Thanks again fellaz

 

[RockRash]

With my '97 Sport's 'rear sag', I added the 4 door leaf springs and lift Warrior shackles. Did a simple TT up front to accomodate.

Looks good. More ability to tow heavier loads with less sag.

Not to mention 31s and 32s will clear. 33s may clear, depending on what you running and how much lift you ultimately end up with.

My $0.02.

 

[Runnin'OnEmpty]

..... When I installed them I just put the springs on opposite sides and got about 1.25" of lift if I remember correctly.......

Karpiel73, why did you switch sides with the new
springs? Does this even them out somehow; maybe
something to do with the fuel tank being under the
driver's side?
Thanks.

 

[Karpiel73]

Karpiel73, why did you switch sides with the new
springs? Does this even them out somehow; maybe
something to do with the fuel tank being under the
driver's side?
Thanks.

The second gen. explorers (and maybe even 1st gen.) had the fuel tank on the drivers side which caused the "gangsta" lean. Passenger side springs aren't so fatigued so putting them on opposite sides almost corrects the lean and gives renewed strength on the drivers side.

And I say "almost" because it depends on the donor explorer you get the springs from.

 

[Runnin'OnEmpty]

Gotcha. That makes sense, thanks.

 

[masospaghetti]

I also would recommend the 4-door leaf packs, in theory they would provide better ride quality and higher load capacity because they are progressive rate instead of the fixed rate of a monoleaf. I put a pair on my 2-door a couple years back and got a little bit of extra height from it.

Also an option is the Monroe Sensatrac "load leveling" shocks which have a built-in helper coil spring. They will provide some additional ride height in the rear and aren't much more expensive than regular shocks (AAP has them for $122 a pair, use promo code CCABIN to get $40 off online and free shipping). I am happy with the ride quality provided by them on my newly acquired 4-door and gained a good inch or so of ride height.