2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Build: Form Follows Function

Q: How was engine performance improved on this build?

The 4.0L V6 engine was enhanced with an aFe intake, a Granatelli Motorsports high-flow mass air sensor, and a Borla Cat-Back exhaust. These upgrades improve airflow, horsepower, and throttle response, along with the addition of an Optima battery for reliability.

Project Overview: Custom 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

We don't have a clue as to why enthusiast-modified versions of Ford's Sport Trac aren't seen in large numbers. Based on the Ranger platform, the V-6-powered, crew cab-bodied ultra-shortbed truck is a handsome beast indeed when properly outfitted. Case in point: Mike Duval's functional, flashy '01 'Trac.

Built as a rolling showcase for Duval's company, X-Treme Toyz, the Blue Oval is a past winner of the prestigious Ford Motor Company Design Award, which is a much-coveted honor given to select trucks at the annual SEMA Show.

Sema Award-Winning Concept and Build Purpose

To impress Ford execs, Duval made use of bolt-on aftermarket accessories along with custom-fabbed goodies to enhance the style and stamina of his Sport Trac.

Suspension, Wheels, and Brake Upgrades

The 4x4's suspension is based on a 4-inch-lift Superlift system, which was installed by the crew at Off Road Unlimited in Burbank, California. The lifted suspension made room within the wheelwells for Weld Racing's Outback wheels, which are wrapped with Parnelli Jones Dirt Grip tires. The rear wheels are hauled to a stop by Stainless Steel Brakes' rear disc conversion kit.

Engine Performance and Power Enhancements

The 4.0L V-6 engine that powers Ford's Sport Trac is a smooth and reliable performer, but every engine can use additional power, so Duval installed an aFe intake system and air filter, a high-flow mass air sensor from Granatelli Motorsports, and a Borla Cat-Back exhaust system. Also found under the hood is an Optima battery.

Performance Accessories supplied a 3-inch body lift for the truck, and the custom front and rear auxiliary tube bumpers (as well as the front skidplate) are the handiwork of Reaper Racing. A Can-Back soft shell covers the bed and is topped with a storage rack from Con-Ferr. The bed's interior is coated with Line-X material, and PIAA lights make after-dusk trail rides a reality. Louie at L&G Enterprises in San Dimas, California, went wild on the Sport Trac's exterior, spraying a flashy mandarin gold over the entire truck, then toping it with white pearl and maroon Chroma-Flair stripes.

Once you set foot on the Warn entry steps and enter the cockpit, you're greeted by a CR Laurence sunroof, carpeting from Nifty Products, and seats equipped with Relaxor heat and massage units. A Clarion audio system featuring Planet Audio amplifiers and Clarion speakers delivers the sounds; Clarion also supplied the ceiling-mounted monitors. Rick Ross of Burbank, California, expertly installed all the audio and video equipment.

As noted, Ford's Sport Trac is an excellent starting point for a custom wheeler. As shown by Mike Duval, the small Ford can be modified to deliver a high degree of style and function; it's just a matter of choosing and using the right components, then hitting the trail with a unique, eye-catching, and capable ride.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Sport Trac Build

Q. What makes the 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac a good platform for customization?

A. The Sport Trac blends the Ranger’s rugged underpinnings with a versatile crew-cab layout, making it a solid foundation for offroad and show-quality builds. As highlighted in the article, it becomes a “handsome beast” when properly outfitted with suspension, wheel, engine, and aesthetic upgrades.

Q. What suspension upgrades were used on this Sport Trac build?

A. This build uses a 4-inch Superlift suspension system, installed by Off Road Unlimited, paired with Superlift dampers. The lift provides the necessary clearance for larger wheels and tires, improving both stance and offroad capability.

Q. How was engine performance improved on this build?

A. The 4.0L V6 received several bolt-on upgrades, including an aFe intake, Granatelli Motorsports high-flow mass air sensor, and a Borla Cat-Back exhaust, all working together to improve airflow and throttle response. An Optima battery was also added for reliability.

Q. What exterior modifications help this Sport Trac stand out?

A. The truck features a custom mandarin-gold paint job with white pearl and maroon Chroma-Flair striping, applied by L&G Enterprises. Additional exterior enhancements include custom tube bumpers, a Can-Back soft shell, a Con-Ferr storage rack, and PIAA lighting for nighttime trail use.

Q. What interior upgrades were added for comfort and entertainment?

A. Inside, the Sport Trac is equipped with Relaxor heat and massage seats, a CR Laurence sunroof, Nifty Products carpeting, and a full Clarion audio/video system with ceiling-mounted monitors and Planet Audio amplifiers. Everything is professionally installed to create a premium cabin experience.

Specifications

Owner:Mike Duval, Burbank, California

Vehicle:

'01 Ford Sport Trac 4x4

Suspension: Superlift 4-inch lift (front and rear) Superlift dampers

Wheels and tires:

15x8-inch Weld Racing Outbacks; 33x12.50R15 Parnelli Jones Dirt Grips

Engine:

4.0L V-6 with aFe intake tube and filter; Granatelli Motorsports mass airflow sensor; Hose Techniques silicone hoses; Borla exhaust; Optima battery

Interior:

Clarion audio/video entertainment system with Clarion monitors, Planet Audio amplifiers; Clarion speakers and subwoofer; Nifty Products carpet; CR Laurence sunroof; Relaxor heat/massage seats

Paint:

L&G Enterprises