Hello all,
This weekend I'll be racing a '96 explorer in an off-road competition. It's sort of like a cheap truck challenge type event, indoors, so probably tight turns, a couple little jumps and who knows what obstacles...
5 timed races over 2 days.

Thing is, I've never had an explorer and It's getting delivered friday night, the night before the races start.
I know it runs, the rear end howls and it has 400k KM's. I'm trying to get the VIN so I atleast know what engine, gears, etc.. are in it.
I might grab a spare rear diff from an auto wreckers if I can find out what gears are in it. The truck is basically getting destroyed this weekend, so don't want to spend any real $$$ on it, but also want it to have a chance at finishing all 5 races if possible.

Enough mumbling... HaHa


What I'm after is more specifics about known issues and breakage and/or any tips on easy lifts.
I might just sawzall the fenders and throw in some 31" MT's. Will they rub on tight turns?

Spare driveshafts with u-joints a good idea?
Can I cut some exhaust off or do they need the backpressure?

I will probably remove all 5 doors, side glass, running boards and as much interior as time allows...
Any other tips or tricks appreciated!