Which year for the first gen. is best for modding for trail?

[92eddie4x4]

Hey, I would love to buy another first gen and mod it for the trail. Which year do you think is the best for this? I'm asking because I am wondering if the gears or dif. are different. thanks:redexp:

 

[CarFreak146]

the first gens are all the same.

 

[Bashman]

There are different gears for the various years. The only way to know is to check the code on the driver side door. Try to get at least 3.73 with limited slip. However, if you are going to lift it and put large tires on it (33s or higher) you will propbably end up changing them anyways.

 

[tomblin1]

Actually:

I like the 4 dr but looks like alot of the folks here have the sport. a little smaller/lighter,etc.

You asked about the gears. there are different possibilities regarding gearing on a stock Explorer. If you look on the drivers door you will see a tag with vin number and other info regarding that specific vehicle. This will tell you which gearing was put on that particular ex.

Axle Codes
The following lists the gear ratios on axles.
41 — 3.27 non-limited slip
45 — 3.55 non-limited slip
46 — 3.73 non-limited slip
42 — 4.10 non-limited slip
D1 — 3.27 limited slip
D5 — 3.55 limited slip
D4 — 3.73 limited slip
D2 — 4.10 limited slip

For example: 3.27s sucks with big tires. If you run 32's 4.10s stock gearing should be ok. LImited slip is better than than non. But if you find a vehicle you like but dont like the gearing, you can always upgrade to 4.56 for around $600. If you do serious off roading and want to run 33-35 tires. you will want to regear anyway.

Good luck!