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The Ford Explorer ST is a beast right off the factory floor, but with the right modifications, you can turn this family-friendly SUV into a 10-second quarter-mile monster. This guide will walk you through everything you need to hit that elusive 10-second mark, covering engine tuning, turbo upgrades, fueling, transmission enhancements, suspension, and more.
Step 1: ECU Tuning – The Key to Unlocking Power 🚀
A high-performance ECU tune is the foundation of any serious Explorer ST build. The stock ECU limits power delivery and boost pressure, but a custom tune will optimize fuel maps, timing, and shift points to push the 3.0L EcoBoost to its limits.
Best Tuning Options:
✔ ZFG Racing – Custom dyno and remote tuning
✔ Livernois Motorsports – Custom dyno and remote tuning
✔ Palm Beach Dyno (HP Tuners) – Aggressive race tunes
✔ 5 Star Tuning – Proven high-performance Explorer ST tunes
Expected Gains with a Tune Alone:
- Stock: 400 HP / 415 lb-ft
- Tuned (93 Octane): 450-470 HP / 500+ lb-ft
- Tuned (E85/E30 Mix): 500-550 HP / 550+ lb-ft
A race-ready tune for E85 or E30 is essential to pushing deep into the 10s.
Step 2: Turbo Upgrades – More Boost, More Power 🏁
The factory turbos are efficient but limited. Upgrading to larger, high-flow turbos is necessary to generate enough power for 10-second quarter-mile times.
Best Turbo Upgrades:
✔ CR Performance Stage 5 Turbos – Best for high-horsepower builds
✔ Gearhead Intercooler Upgrade – Reduces intake temps for sustained performance
✔ TurboSmart Wastegate Actuators – Increases boost control & consistency
Power Gains with Upgraded Turbos:
- With E85 and supporting mods: 600-700 HP+
- Boost levels: 26-30+ PSI
Step 3: Fuel System Upgrades – More Fuel for More Power ⛽
The stock fuel system can handle moderate power increases, but for 10-second performance, you’ll need better injectors and a high-flow fuel pump.
Essential Fueling Upgrades:
✔ XDI High-Pressure Fuel Pump – Supports E85 power levels
✔ XDI 30% or 50% Larger Injectors – Handles more fuel demand
✔ Nostrum HP High-Pressure Fuel Pump – Supports E85 power levels
✔ Nostrum HP Stage 3 Injectors – Handles more fuel demand 60% over stock levels
✔ Upgraded Low-Pressure Fuel Pump – Ensures consistent flow
✔ Flex Fuel Sensor Kit – Allows E85/E30 tuning
Fuel Type & Expected Gains:
- 93 Octane – Moderate gains (~500 HP)
- E30 Blend – Big gains (~550-600 HP)
- Full E85 – Maximum power (~650+ HP)
For a reliable 10-second setup, running full E85 is recommended.
Step 4: Transmission & Drivetrain Upgrades – Handling the Power ⚙️
The 10-speed automatic transmission in the Explorer ST is solid, but at 600+ HP, it needs reinforcements.
Must-Have Transmission Mods:
✔ ZFG Drive Model Select Upgraded Transmission Tune – Optimizes shifts for high power and transbrake
✔ Livernois or SunCoast Upgraded Transmission Tune – Optimizes shifts for high power
✔ Upgraded Clutch Packs – Handles extra torque
✔ Transmission Cooler – Keeps temps down during aggressive driving
✔ Upgraded Driveshaft & Axles – Prevents breakage at launch
Launch control and transmission tuning are crucial for consistent low 60-ft times.
Step 5: Exhaust & Intake – Freeing Up Airflow 💨
To maximize power, the turbo system needs to breathe. Upgraded intakes and exhaust systems improve airflow efficiency, resulting in higher power output and better turbo spool.
Best Intake & Exhaust Mods:
✔ MDesign Cold Air Intake – High-flow design, better turbo sound
✔ CVF or SPD Downpipes – High-flow catted or catless options
✔ Full 3” Cat-Back Exhaust – Reduces back pressure for max gains
✔ Turbosmart Blow-Off Valve – Helps with turbo efficiency
A full turbo-back exhaust system adds 15-30 HP and enhances the aggressive sound of the ST.
Step 6: Suspension & Traction – Keeping Power to the Ground 🏎️
A 10-second Explorer ST needs traction and stability at high speeds. Upgraded suspension and drag tires are essential for cutting low 60-ft times and preventing wheel hop.
Best Suspension & Traction Upgrades:
✔ Eibach Lowering Springs – Lowers center of gravity, improves handling
✔ Steeda or H&R Sway Bars – Reduces body roll on launch
✔ Drag Radials (Mickey Thompson ET Street S/S) – Better grip
✔ Adjustable Rear Toe Links & Camber Arms – Maximizes traction
Switching to a sticky tire setup is key for consistent 1.5-second 60-ft times.
Step 7: Weight Reduction – Shaving Time Off Your ETs ⚖️
The Explorer ST is a heavy SUV (~4,700 lbs), so cutting weight helps improve ETs.
Easy Weight Reduction Mods:
✔ Lightweight Wheels – Reduces rotational mass
✔ Rear Seat & Spare Tire Removal – Saves 100+ lbs
✔ Carbon Fiber Hood – Saves ~20-30 lbs
✔ Battery Relocation or Lightweight Battery – Saves ~30 lbs
A 200-300 lb weight reduction can shave 0.2-0.3 seconds off quarter-mile times.
Final Build: 10-Second Explorer ST Parts List & Estimated Cost 🛠️
| Category | Recommended Parts | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| ECU Tune | Livernois/Palm Beach Dyno/ZFG Racing | $800 |
| Turbo Upgrade | CR Performance Stage 5 | $4,600 |
| Fuel System | XDI HPFP + Injectors / Nostrum HP + Injectors | $3,500 |
| Transmission | Upgraded clutch packs, tune | $1,800 |
| Intake & Exhaust | CAI, Downpipes, Cat-Back | $2,000 |
| Suspension & Traction | Lowering Springs, Drag Radials | $1,500 |
| Weight Reduction | Lightweight wheels, seat delete | $1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | Flex fuel sensor, intercooler | $1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $14,600-$21,000 |
Real-World Performance: What to Expect ⏱️
With all the right mods, a properly built Explorer ST should hit:
✔ 0-60 MPH: 3.0-3.5 seconds
✔ 1/4 Mile Time: 10.8-10.9 seconds @ 125-130 MPH
✔ Horsepower Output: 650-700+ HP
✔ Trap Speeds: 125+ MPH
Conclusion: The Ultimate 10-Second Explorer ST Build 🏁
Building a 10-second Explorer ST requires a perfect balance of power, traction, and tuning. By following this guide and investing in the right parts, you can transform your ST into a record-breaking sleeper SUV.
🚀 Ready to build your 10-second Explorer ST? Join the discussion at ExplorerST.Club and share your build!🔥
