Ever since the introduction
of the 1995 Explorer with independent front suspension there have been
offroaders who have wanted to lift theirs to gain additional ground clearance.
Unfortunately Ford didn't make it easy for us to lift the '95-'97 Explorer.
However that's not the case for the '98-'00 Explorer models.
TC looked at the chassis
on his '98 Explorer and realized that it was nearly identical to the '98
Ranger. What changed from '97-'98 is the mounting method of the torsion
bar adjuster. On the '98 it's easily dropped with the proper bracketry,
that's not the case for the '95-'97. TC bought a 4" suspension kit for
a '98 Ranger from Superlift and with a few modifications built himself
one fine Explorer.
If you can wait a little
longer there will be aftermarket lifts available for the '98-'00 Explorer.
You may be well served to wait for the complete kit rather than try to
duplicate what TC has done with his.
Here you can see the drop
brackets for
the torsion bars |
TC is able to run 33x14.50-15's
with a
combination of suspension
and body lift |
Engine: |
4.0L SOHC V-6 |
Transmission: |
5 speed automatic |
Tires / Wheels: |
33x14.50-15 Dick Cepek Fun Country on 15x10 Eagles |
Front Suspension: |
Superlift 4" Lift for a '98 Ranger, Torsion Bars from a 4-door V-8
Explorer |
Rear Suspension: |
Additional leaves to gain lift |
Differentials / Gearing |
4:56 Gears, 8.8" rear w/disc brakes, Dana 35 front w/ARB Airlocker |
Body Lift: |
3" |
Bumpers: |
Front Smittybuilt custom reinforced, rear painted to match body |
Audio: |
Mach Stereo |
Paint: |
Custom Paint by TC and Anthony Esparza |
One of the most important
components is the new
steering knuckle |
TC Welded the drop bracket
to the crossmember for
additional strength |
|