getting a 86 ranger 4+4 with 2.9 and 5 speed manual

[scotts90ranger]

I thought the Explorer was wider but measured a 96 Explorer and a 93 Ranger a couple days ago and both measured 49 inches inside tire to tire

I think the Explorer is still like 1/2" wider, depends on tire size and wheels... for the wider body in '93 they widened the rear axle (front stayed the same since it was already wider with the D35 on a 4x4, never changed that I've heard of on the TTB 4x2's...). Explorer 8.8 is the one you want if you want more strength, but the 28 spline axles aren't super weak unless you really abuse things...

 

[Josh B]

I have been using it as a tractor for a bit
The Explorer one has a 10 bolt cover and I think that's the heavy one. Also it's a 3.73, same as my Ranger so it won't affect my mileage either will it?