New 2001 Explorer Sport owner. Thinking about lifting, suggestions wanted

[kaczman]

Hello all,

Proud owner of 2001 Explorer Sport 4x4. After searching these forums and cardomain for a few weeks, here is what I have planned, with some questions.

I dont plan on doing anything too crazy - not yet anyhow. Im not sure about rims and tires, but for around $300 its hard to pass up a 2-3" suspension lift and a 3" body lift.

First and most important - the suspension. The rear is sagging, so I figured I'd pick up some Warrior 151 shackles off amazon for $79.
http://www.amazon.com/Warrior-153-Rear-Heavy-Shackle/dp/B0017M6F2W
Install here:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=212451

I also figured I'd pick up an add a leaf for $35. pro comp: 13120 from summit I believe?
Install:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=97676

Am I correct in assuming that would lift the rear about 3" higher than stock, and restore the sagging?

For the front, I figured I'd pick up some torsion keys for liek $80
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=350233840055&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

That should lift the front around 2-3", and then I can do a torsion twist to level it out with the rear, correct?
Install:
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=196965

So that should get me 3" in rear, and 3" in front, right?

The next logical step would be this Summit racing 3" body lift for a ranger, which I've read on here would fit my explorer perfectly:
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-7888300/
install: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=240957

Thanks for any help on the suspension questions.

The last question I have is: what is the difference between the tail lights from a sport and 4 Door? I was looking at these:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/98-0...ptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories

But apparently they wont fit a sport. Why is that? Is just the design different, or is the size different from the quarter panels being different?

If those wont work, anyone know where to locate some different looking tail lights?

Thanks again!

 

[kaczman]

bump?

 

[sjr033]

First, the tail lights are unique to the '01+ 2dr Sport. I have never looked at changing mine, so I don't have any recommendations where to look, other than ebay.
Second, You do NOT want the torsion keys. You should be able to get 2" lift just be twisting the factory bolts. You do NOT want to go over 2". Remember that the more you twist the bars the stiffer the ride will be and the more angle you introduce to the front cv joints. The more the angle, the quicker they wear out. Third, I would look at the body lift for the Sport Trac, because it will have the front bumper parts needed. I am not saying that the Ranger kit would not work, I just think the Sport Trac might be a better fit. (note: I have NOT done a body lift, so this is pure guess)

 

[kaczman]

Why do you not recommend the torsion keys?