I've read this string with much interest. I have a Bazooka 8" bass tube (likely an older model than yours) in my car, and it gives me just enough bass without being overpowering. However, the car its in is a hatchback, so I have it placed against the rear seat to one side. My installer played around with positioning before securing it in place, and this location was the most unobtrusive while maximizing bass effect. He told me that, in my case, the angle of my rear hatch would help "deflect" the bass forward towards me.
In my opinion, a bass tube such as the Bazooka, amplified or not, is best suited for smaller spaces. I also own a 96 Explorer, and given the distance between the driver and any reasonable location of the tube, among other factors (road noise for example) subs of this kind will make little impact. I'm a 40 year old who spent over a dozen years selling stereo equipment, including mobile audio. My recommendation, if you can allow the space, is to get a good sealed box for a 10" sub, and amplify it externally. A sealed sub will give you the "tightest" response for your bass, rather than just boom. The box size, at most, might take up a cube area about 12" behind your rear seat.
I realize theft may be a concern. Does your Explorer have the factory tint? Mine has factory tint, but I wanted aftermarket tint also. The result is an almost mirror-like effect from outside on all but the front door windows (which are only darker because they had no factory tint). Its all but impossible to see inside from anywhere but the front doors and windshield, yet my tint is not darker than legally allowed.
I apologize for the length of this reply, but since I have first-hand experience with both the vehicle and the sub I wanted to weigh in. Best wishes on whatever you do.
Randy
We're living in a world that's been pulled over our eyes to blind us from the truth. Where are you, white rabbit?