Spoet Trac on the Rubicon Trail

[firefly1246]

So just watched the new Top Grear American version last night and they did an excursion through the Rubicon Trail to map the trail for Google Maps. This got me thinking: 1) who has gone on the rubicon trail in a 2nd gen explorer or Sport Trac and 2) what set up should one have prior to traversing the Rubicon.

I have read a lot from the Jeep Wrangler community but haven't seen anything from explorers. In the Jeep community they state the min is 33" tires, 2-3" lift, winch, rear locker, and rock protection (depending on how much you care about your rig). They also state the bigger you go the easier and less damage you will endure.

So what are your thoughts?

 

[firefly1246]

Well first off it would help if I could type correctly on my iPhone.

 

[Turdle]

First picture in this thread says a lot.

You might scan his threads for the modifications he made.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15264&highlight=texan

 

[RangerX]

There were two 2nd gens in our group when I went through. The one running 33s had a pretty tough time. Not enough clearance, and he snapped two front axles, he was locked front and back too. Everyone else had 35s or bigger.
Tracs are way longer than any Jeep, so would need that much more clearance than the Jeep world suggests.
I would say 6" lift and 35s.
I ran 7", 2 lockers and 37s on my Ranger and made it through without issue, although it was probably the hardest trail I've run.