How To Prepare Ford Explorer For Off Road

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: August 11, 2023

For many, going off-road is a calling, a chance to explore the unbeaten path. For others, it's a break from the daily grind, an adventure waiting to be embarked upon. Regardless, venturing off the asphalt demands preparation, as the wild often tests the limits of the Ford Explorer.

Before heading off-road, make sure your Ford Explorer is up to the challenge. If you happen to get bogged down, it's essential to have a plan to free yourself.

What factors affect the off-road capability of the Ford Explorer?

Recognize that not all Explorer trims are designed with the same off-road prowess. SUVs fitted with high ground clearance, a robust differential, and a four-wheel drive from the factory will inevitably have the upper hand over base models intended for urban driving.

Heading deep into the wilderness in an urban-oriented model can be dicey. Here's what determines how your Ford Explorer stands up to off-road challenges:

Ground clearance

Clearance is paramount. It's the distance from the lowest point of the Ford Explorer's undercarriage to the ground. Explorers with lesser clearance (below 6.5-7 inches) may struggle in demanding terrains, risking damage to key components.

Engine displacement

Engine power matters. A beefy engine in your Ford Explorer will more easily conquer obstacles in its path. Smaller engines might struggle with challenging terrains like mud, water, and rugged trails.

For off-roading, diesel engines are often favored. They provide ample torque at lower speeds while being fuel efficient.

Transmission

Transmission type plays a pivotal role in off-roading. While automatic transmissions require careful handling and are sensitive to extreme conditions, manual transmissions are hardier, offering more control in challenging situations.

Drive Type

When you're off the grid, the type of drive becomes crucial. The Ford Explorer's all-wheel drive is designed for unpredictable conditions, ensuring superior off-road capability.

If four-wheel drive isn't an option, front-wheel drive, combined with the vehicle's weight distribution, can still hold its own on tricky terrains.

AWD vs 4WD

Both AWD and 4WD enhance the Ford Explorer's traction and handling capabilities. AWD focuses on enhancing the Explorer's performance across diverse weather conditions, while 4WD is tailored for challenging terrains, offering the flexibility of shifting between 2WD and 4WD.

For genuine off-road challenges, a 4WD system is usually the preferred choice over AWD.

Safety systems

Modern safety systems in the Ford Explorer - like Traction Control, ABS, Electronic Stability Program, Blind Spot Monitoring, and parking sensors - significantly aid your off-road adventures, ensuring both the driver and the vehicle can tackle the elements confidently.

How to Gear Up Your Ford Explorer for the Off-Road?

As a Ford Explorer owner, you're not just buying into a name, but an identity. The fact that you have the choice to transform it beyond its factory spec is tantalising, isn't it? Right, let's get into the details.

If your idea of a perfect Sunday is a peaceful drive with a picturesque stop by a stream, then perhaps, a few tweaks and you're sorted. However, for the restless spirits out there, for those who thrive on adrenaline and are on the constant quest for the unbeaten path – well, you've got a bit of work ahead. Let's dive deep into the magic and madness of gearing up your Ford Explorer for some serious off-roading, shall we?

Remember, dreams come with a price tag – both in terms of effort and yes, quite literally too.

Essentials For Your Expedition

Whether you're exploring untouched woods or navigating tricky marshes, these are your bare minimum for the Explorer:

Jump Starter Kit

Picture this: your Explorer's battery decides to have an off day right in the middle of nowhere. Not a pretty image, right? A jump starter kit isn't just handy, it's crucial. With this, you'll ensure that your Explorer's heart keeps beating, wherever you are.

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First Aid Kit

Adventure comes with its risks. Always be prepared to handle minor bumps and bruises with a comprehensive first aid kit. Trust me, a well-equipped first aid kit can be a lifesaver in unpredictable terrains.

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Tool Kit

If there's one thing any seasoned off-roader will tell you, it's to always have your tools at the ready. The unpredictable nature of off-roading means your Explorer might need some on-the-spot tweaking. And when it does, you'll be glad you packed that tool kit.

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Tire Repair Kit

Those robust Explorer tires aren't invincible. They might occasionally fall prey to a rogue sharp rock. But with a tire repair kit, you can mend minor damages and get right back to exploring.

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Snacks and Hydration

Always pack more than you think you'll need. The unpredictable charm of off-roading might sometimes mean unexpected extended hours. And trust me, having enough food and water is crucial in those scenarios.

Warm Attire

Temperatures can be deceptive. What's warm and cozy during the day can turn icy at night. Your Explorer might handle the cold, but can you? Always pack warm.

Air Compressor

Adjusting tire pressure based on the terrain? It's not just technical jargon. It's real, practical, and very necessary. A portable air compressor lets your Explorer grip the ground, whether it's soft sand or rugged rocks.

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GPS Navigator

The thrill of the unknown is exhilarating. But sometimes, knowing where you're headed or finding your way back can be equally vital. Don't leave home without a trusty navigator.

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Extra Gear for the Enthusiasts

If you've read this far, you're not just any off-roader. You're a true enthusiast. And for you, here are some additional toys to consider for your Explorer:

Off-road Rims/Tires

Enhance your Explorer's performance with rims and tires tailor-made for off-road adventures. An aggressive tread pattern doesn't just look cool – it means serious business on challenging terrains.

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Lift kit

A lift kit isn't just about looking beefy—it's about function. Elevating the Ford Explorer gives you that extra ground clearance you'd need to tackle those tricky terrains. After all, we're talking about allowing this SUV to glide over obstacles without scraping its belly. Mighty useful, right?

But remember, there's a science to lifting. Different sizes, different outcomes. It’s key to pick the right one tailored to your Explorer model and the kind of off-roading you fancy.

A word of advice: not every vehicle is frame-based, meaning lift kits might not be for all. Instead, larger tires or spring spacers could be the way forward for those with integrated bodies.

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Skid Plate

Think of a skid plate as your Explorer’s shield, guarding its vitals—engine, transmission, fuel tank—from unfriendly off-road encounters. The peace of mind, knowing you're armored down below? Priceless.

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Bull Bar

This isn't about showing off. A bull bar stands guard at the forefront of your Explorer, primed to fend off any uninvited impacts—whether they’re stray deer or rogue rocks. It's the faceguard for your SUV's grille and lights, and it means business.

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Winch

A winch: It's like having superpowers. When your Explorer finds itself knee-deep in the muck, it's this gadget that comes to the rescue, pulling you out of sticky situations. But it's not just about power; it's about technique—anchor to a solid base, and you're golden.

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Roof rack

For the explorers who need more—more gear, more supplies—the roof rack is the unsung hero, adding a layer of utility atop your Explorer. Just make sure it's anchored well, because off-roading doesn't play nice.

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Light bar

Nightfall on a trail? No worries. With a light bar atop your Explorer, you'll blaze a trail through the darkest terrains. It's about lighting up the unknown, making off-roading safer and a tad dramatic.

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Additional battery

When you pimp out your Explorer with gadgets galore, the stock battery might raise a white flag. But throw in an auxiliary battery, and you're armed with reserves to keep everything running smoothly.

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Snorkel

For those wild enough to take their Explorer through water crossings, a snorkel ensures your engine doesn't gulp down water. It’s like giving your SUV a snorkeling kit—making sure it breathes, even when things get wet and wild.

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Revving up the Ford Explorer for off-road? Here's a checklist:

Prepping the Ford Explorer isn't just about gear. It's about ensuring the machine is as ready as the driver. Here's a bit of a pre-drive ritual:

• Give that engine a good look: no unwanted noises, leaks, or other unwanted surprises.
• Test that suspension. It should move like a well-oiled ballet dancer—not groaning and squeaking.
• Brakes? They're your best mates. Make sure they're sharp and responsive.
• Top up all vital fluids. And of course, ensure you've got enough fuel. Stalling in the wilderness isn’t part of the plan, right?

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Conclusion

Gearing up your Ford Explorer for the great outdoors? It's an art and a science. Ensure your SUV's vitals are in tip-top shape. Pack in the right tools, gadgets, and gear. But most of all, go with the confidence that your Explorer, armed and ready, will take on whatever the wild throws at it. Happy exploring!