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European Explorer ST to Full US OEM Conversion Project | Looking for Advice ⭐

D

DEKLERKGO

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#1
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Location
Waterdijk 16, 7433RC Schalkhaar Netherlands
Vehicle
2019 Explorer ST Line PHEV
#1
Hi everyone,

My name is Dimitri and I'm from the Netherlands.

I own a European-spec 2020 Ford Explorer ST, and I'm starting what is probably a pretty unusual project over here.

My goal is to convert as much of my Explorer as possible to the original US OEM specification. I want to keep everything factory correct, not aftermarket.

The project includes:
• US OEM 2-inch trailer hitch and receiver
• Rear bumper and lower diffuser (if different from the EU version)
• Complete hitch crossmember and mounting hardware
• Trailer Control Module and wiring
• Steering wheel
• ST interior (front and rear seats)
• Factory key fobs and any required modules if necessary
I already have my VIN and I'm building a complete OEM parts list before I start buying anything.

A few questions for those who have experience with these trucks:
  1. Has anyone converted a European Explorer to US OEM specifications?
  2. Is the body shell identical between the US and EU Explorer ST?
  3. What parts are direct bolt-on, and what parts require programming?
  4. Can the US trailer hitch and receiver be installed on a European Explorer without modifications?
  5. If I swap the steering wheel, seats, Trailer Control Module, BCM or RFA modules, what needs to be programmed?
  6. Has anyone successfully paired donor key fobs and modules to another Explorer?
  7. Are there any hidden differences between the US and EU vehicles that I should know before ordering parts?
I'm also looking for a complete front-damaged 2020-2022 Explorer ST donor vehicle. If anyone knows of one, or a reputable dismantler that specializes in Explorer STs, I'd really appreciate the recommendation.

My goal is to document the entire conversion from start to finish, including OEM part numbers, wiring, programming and installation. I'll gladly share everything I learn so future owners can benefit from it as well.

Thanks in advance for any advice. I'm really looking forward to learning from those who have already done similar projects.
 

B

born

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#2
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Location
Chalfont, PA
Vehicle
2026 Explorer ST
#2
I had no idea they made European STs. Sorry I can't offer any help with the conversion but, best of luck!
 

P

pgruber75

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Location
Michigan (Detroit Area)
Vehicle
2023 Explorer ST
#3
May I ask why you would want an US hitch receiver in Europe? This makes zero sense. You won't find a hitch there with an EU-sized-ball.
Whatdo you want with the trailer-control-module? EU-trailers have totally different brakes from US-trailers. Like 100% different.

I don't know the differences between the EU and US-model, but I assume it's not much. Maybe the headlights have the E-certification and the rear-lights have a fog-light added. You need to delete both.
Don't forget to add remote-start and the aggressive cold-start-procedure as both might not be allowed. (at least in Germany, where I am from, I don't know about the rest of the EU).
But seats and steering-wheels? I doubt there is any difference.

Again my question: Why??
 

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