I want to do an Explorer axle swap for disc brakes, limited-slip, spring-under capability, and wider stance.

How do the brakes get hooked up? Just run some new braided lines to the calipers?
How does the e-brake connect? Just like a Ranger using the oem cable?

Is it required to change the pinion angle?...especially if it will be lifted slightly.

I want the spring perches under the axle so when I get some long travel springs it will not lift the truck, rather keep the stock height or somewhere around it.

Also, do I have to weld on shock tabs? I am trying to build a prerunner eventually so I can possibly put some shock tabs on top of the leaf spring perch and make some type of small bed cage to attach the top of the springs to.

 

if you keep the springs under the axle, it will lower your truck about 4.5"

 

You will need some weld on tab's for the shocks.

If you get a drum brake axle, then everything will go back like it does on your Ranger axle. If you get a disc brake axle, then you will want to use the hard lines and "T" fitting off your Ranger axle; just cut and flare the ends back on the hard lines enough for the soft lines to fit (the soft lines go to the caliper).

 

Don't forget the proportioning valve off of an Exploder with disc brakes.

 

you dont need it.....ive done it plenty of times without, aslong as the truck has RABS then you will not need the proportioning valve.....

 

I though you did. Just something I read a while back.

 

And just for future reference for anyone who searches, IF your truck doesn't have RABS (Rear Anti-Lock Brake System), then you can get the brake master cylinder off of the Explorer and swap it in place of your stock brake master cylinder.

 

I dont think you need to do all of that...I just did the swap and insteat of leaving the rangers "T" fitting, i just removed the line with the "T" and in its place just connected the soft line coming off the driver side caliper to the main hard line coming off the frame rail. basically i hooked it up the exact same way it was on the explorer.

 

Unless you want to redo the hard lines on the frame rail, you need to keep the t-fitting and use a passanger side soft line on the driver side