Tire size question

[Ki4npz]

So I was flipping through the owner's manual today, and I came across a part in there that said something like "models with 20 inch wheels are not made to go off-road--dont do it." After thinking to myself "that makes sense..." I thought, that's weird--a car that says 4WD on the back hatch and has fancy terrain management should not go off-road--that's odd! Am I correct in assuming that the XLT and Limited have the same brakes? So the XLT 18-inchers should fit? Then I wont have to restrict my Explorer to the highway (according to the manual.)
On a related note, are there some mild lift kits available for them?

Thanks y'all

 

[peterk9]

So I was flipping through the owner's manual today, and I came across a part in there that said something like "models with 20 inch wheels are not made to go off-road--dont do it." After thinking to myself "that makes sense..." I thought, that's weird--a car that says 4WD on the back hatch and has fancy terrain management should not go off-road--that's odd! Am I correct in assuming that the XLT and Limited have the same brakes? So the XLT 18-inchers should fit? Then I wont have to restrict my Explorer to the highway (according to the manual.)
On a related note, are there some mild lift kits available for them?

Thanks y'all

Welcome to the Forum.
The warning was mainly because of possible damage to the wheels, not the ability of the vehicle itself. On the 2011 models the brakes are all the same size. FYI, I ran the Base model17" wheels/tires on my 2011 Limited for Winter driving. Brake sizes are now larger and had I gone with 18" wheels I could have used them on my current vehicle instead of having to buy a new set.
There are threads in the "Modified" sub forum on lift kits. You can find them using the 'Search' feature (upper right corner). Just search on 'lift kits' in the "Modified" sub forum.
BTW, the badge actually should say AWD. There is a thread on that as well.
73s Peter

 

[Ki4npz]

BTW, the badge actually should say AWD. There is a thread on that as well.
73s Peter

Yeah, I thought that was odd. I guess it depends on whoever's definition of 4wd vs AWD. I always thought of 4WD as part time, usually two-speed transfer case equipped. Anything that is full-time and not selectable is AWD. Oh well. I'm sure many agree with that. Doesnt really bother me. Though I was shopping for a 4x4 SUV, I eventually realized that the other 4x4's I've had (Durango and Ram) never acutally used 4WD. My Wrangler however, did on occasion.

 

[cwescapexlt4x4]

With the 50 series tires, I don't want to venture very deep into rough areas ... this is to avoid wheel AND tire damage, just not much protection there. Our Subaru will go those places