why is th explorer such a formidable 4x4 vehicle?

[zaomaster1988]

why is the FORD EXPLORER such a great 4x4 machine what makes it so special. im not dissing explorers dont get me wrong i have one but i was just wondering what is so great about them.

 

[section525]

Taken right off the main page to this site.

“What?” “Build an Explorer!” “Why?"

With the Ford Explorer being the #1 SUV in America for nearly a decade there is certainly no one who is un-familiar with this vehicle. The trouble is that most people equate a Ford Explorer with soccer moms and shopping malls rather than off road trails such as the Rubicon and Terminator.

The Ford Explorer may be the best kept secret in the off-road world. When these rigs are stock they are capable off-road performers. After a few modifications they become nearly unstoppable.

From 1991-1994 the Ford Explorer platform came with a full ladder type frame based on the tough Ford Ranger platform with 8.8” 31 spline rear axle, Dana 35 Twin Traction Beam (TTB) front suspension (axle diameters and U-joints are the same as a Dana 44), choice of manual or electronic shift transfer cases with low range, manual or automatic locking hubs, and a torquey, reliable 4.0L V-6.

In 1995 Ford changed the front suspension in the Explorer to an IFS system (Independent Front Suspension). Although the IFS systems offer less wheel travel than the TTB systems, they have proven themselves to be extremely reliable off-road. 2002 brought more changes to the Explorer 4 door. The most noticeable change is the addition of an Independent Rear Suspension system in place of the live axle suspension all previous Explorers shared.

So, what does it take to make the Explorer “really” off-road worthy? The same type of modifications as any other rig. Large tires for flotation and ground clearance. A lift to accommodate the big tires. Re-gearing to compensate for the larger diameter of the tires and a locker or two for putting the power to the ground. Approach and departure angles can be maximized by installing aftermarket bumpers, and the break over angle is excellent since the transfer case is tucked well up within the frame rails.

Check out our featured Explorers and Rangers and look through our past “Serious Explorations” off-road adventures. See for yourself just what kind of a performer the Explorer / Ranger platform really is!
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[410Fortune]

take a look around

Your 91 is one of the best!

First off it has a full length frame, solid rear axle, capable 4x4 independent front suspension (TTB), nice torquey and reliable V6, good low range transfer case, good wheel base and vehicle size, etc.

There is alot of possibilities to build up that rig from mild to wild.

Ford trucks have always been very capable off road, many consider the early bronco to be the best wheeler of all time.

 

[zaomaster1988]

would my x look ****y if i got a 3" body lift i waited a few monthas to get bigger tires.

 

[410Fortune]

it would look silly for a while yes, but not tooooo bad.
Or you could wait to install the lift until you can afford the tires.

Also you can often find used tires CHEAP.

Besides who cares what it looks like ifits your build project? You know what and why...

 

[Stic-o]

My truck is a good exsample of this. With almost no susp. mods, a locker, the right tires and a body lift, I can do some pretty nasty stuff. I'm sure most will agree.

 

[CodePoet]

Hell cut the fenders, stuff some 32-33" tires and give'er hell...you'll be really surprised what they can do

You can also do a spacer/shackle lift for cheap, with a 3" body lift and cuttin put some 35"s on it, regear and go.