Steeda Lowering Springs and Rear Swaybar

I've been wanting to do this for a while, you know make an SUV handle better.  Not what you usually hear from soccer moms and grocery getters, but this is an Explorer ST - you drive it!  I got the Steeda Explorer Lowering Springs from a local seller who bought them and never installed - got a great deal on them!  I ordered the Steeda Explorer Adjustable Rear Sway Bar online as well.  I already installed the Steeda Explorer Strut Tower Brace so essentially I was building the Steeda Explorer Ultimate Handling Package.

Let's talk about each these components and why you would want to add this to your already well-handling Explorer ST.

Increased rigidity. A stamped steel strut tower brace comes standard on the Explorer ST but it may not offer the greatest performance. The Steeda strut tower brace features strong steel tubing and sturdy mounting plates to ensure great strength.  It also gives you a custom look. Compared to the stamped steel piece the Steeda strut tower brace is an eye-catcher when you pop the hood. This brace is a great way to give your SUV a unique look at meets and shows. It comes with a wrinkle black powder coat finish but I opted to pay $25 for the Steeda Blue powder Coat, just call them!

Stability and control. Distributing the weight of your Explorer between the rear wheels when turning, the Steeda sway bar helps to keep your SUV level in corners and planted to the road.  The bar is 3-way adjustable and up to 4x the stiffness of the OE swaybar.  I opted for the middle setting, not too aggressive and it feels excellent.  You can see it peeking out in the install bay - not yet attached.

Improved handling and performance. These Steeda springs help to lower the center of gravity, providing better handling characteristics. Brake dive and cornering are also improved due to a higher spring rate that doesn't compromise comfort. The springs also offer a more aggressive look. With a 1-1/8 inch drop front and rear, the Steeda springs give you a lower stance and more performance-oriented style without compromising the functionality of the SUV. We didn't want to drop the SUV too low as to interfere with parking and curbs, so these are perfect!

Lastly, once installed - you need to get your car aligned to set the specs back to factory alignment.  Fortunately the shop I took them to did everything as well as perform the rear backup camera recall as well!  

Overall, it's only been a day since the install.  The 'feel' is different, more 'planted' in the seat and the Explorer feels much more like our old Focus ST where it could turn on a dime.  The springs will take a few miles to 'settle' after some road exercise and come down to their lowered height.  Overall very pleased with the setup.  Between the strut tower brace, rear sway and springs - we have an Explorer that can handle just as good as it can GO!