I sold my 98 Sport, it was done.
I'm looking for another Explorer for light offroad use hunting vehicle.
What years are the toughest, easiest to modify for offroad.

 

Get any 90's explorer you prefer. When they change body style in 02 they get expensive quick and that isn't what you want for a offroad and hunting vehicle. Also, avoid the AWD explorers for offroad. I don't like the lack of control on the 4x4 system of the AWDs. I would try to get the 5.0 in the explorer. If you don't have to get an Explorer I would get a truck, but if you have to have an suv then I would try and find a full size Bronco. Easy parts since same as truck, heavy duty, pretty cool on top of it all.

 

I've had a 93, a 2000 and the 98 I just sold. The 98 was fine but I had no end of trouble with the clutch system. I thought the 5 speed would be the way to go after I blew the tranny in the 2000.
I did the brown wire mod in the 98, and that mad a big difference.
The only real issues I've has been transmissions.
Are all the auto the same in the 90's?

 

They aren't all the same, I am unsure of all the options there are, but if you want lots of details on Explorers then I may also try this site. Ford Explorer and Ranger Enthusiast Forums - Serious Explorations
I have had good experience with them.