When it comes to the world of off-road, the Ford Explorer is one of the top competitors for budget minded rigs. Many people have taken their Ford Explorer wheeling without so much as a suspension upgrade, but what do you need to make sure your Explorer survives the expedition?
Suspension
The most basic of off-road upgrades, the suspension lift, is as good of a place as any to start. While explorers can be more difficult to find lifts for due to their uni-body construction and often coil-over shock suspension, but they can be had for an affordable price. This can be installed at home or with the help of a dealership or shop.
The suspension is important because, not only does it improve ground clearance, but it also sets the stage for all of the subsequent upgrades that will be done including allowing more room for larger tires. While the size of the lift you choose will vary, you should plan on at least three inches of lift.
Tires
Tires are the next upgrade you will need to have done. Tires are vital for ensuring traction in the mud and rocks. When choosing tires, you will need to make sure you get a size that will fit under your Explorer. This will be determined by your amount of lift and if you have aftermarket fender flairs. You will also want to get a new speedometer gear to reflect the new tire size. This can be purchased from your local Ford dealer.
When choosing tires, you will have to decide how you will be using your Explorer. The roads will eat away off-road tires within a few thousand miles and these are not cheap, so you will want to trailer your vehicle if you plan on using these. On the other hand, street tires will not offer any traction off-road. This is where a good all terrain tire come in to play. They will not wear out as fast as off-road tires but will offer substantially better traction off-road than street tires.
While a suspension lift and tires may not be everything you need, they are a great starting point for any budding wheeler looking to get their foot in the door with a great starter platform.
When you are looking for a Ford Explorer to take Wheeling, check out Arlington Heights Ford for your needs. You can find them at http://www.ahford.net.
