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  #1  
Old 01-30-2017, 07:29 PM
Knigh7mare Knigh7mare is offline
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Default Convert 2wd to 4x4

Hey guys,
Got a quick question. I have a 2wd 1997 Ranger XLT. I wanted to know if it was worth the investment to convert it to a 4x4 and if so what would I need to do to convert it. Also any advice on where to find a front axel for the conversion.

Thanks guys!
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  #2  
Old 01-30-2017, 08:30 PM
aroundincircles aroundincircles is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

you would need some $$$$$$, and then some $$$, and probably some $$$.

No, its not worth it. Axles, hubs, transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, etc. You're MUCH better off selling your 2wd and buying a 4wd. Unless your truck has something super special about it, its not at all worth it.
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Old 01-30-2017, 08:36 PM
Jimmyspy Jimmyspy is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Knigh7mare View Post
Hey guys, Got a quick question. I have a 2wd 1997 Ranger XLT. I wanted to know if it was worth the investment to convert it to a 4x4 and if so what would I need to do to convert it. Also any advice on where to find a front axel for the conversion. Thanks guys!
Worth it? That's up to you. Most people would say no, but if you really like the truck and its in amazing shape, then you might be able to justify it.

Easiest way to covert your 2wd to 4wd would be to find a 4wd donor truck. One that's been wrecked, has a bad motor, has rust, etc. you're gonna need the TTB from end, the transmission, transfer case, radius arms, coils, etc. It won't be a quick or easy task, but since your truck and a 4wd truck both use an I beam front end, it wouldn't be impossible.
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  #4  
Old 01-31-2017, 02:39 PM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

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Originally Posted by Jimmyspy View Post
Worth it? That's up to you. Most people would say no, but if you really like the truck and its in amazing shape, then you might be able to justify it.

Easiest way to covert your 2wd to 4wd would be to find a 4wd donor truck. One that's been wrecked, has a bad motor, has rust, etc. you're gonna need the TTB from end, the transmission, transfer case, radius arms, coils, etc. It won't be a quick or easy task, but since your truck and a 4wd truck both use an I beam front end, it wouldn't be impossible.
A little more involved than this so I am told.. I have everything you have suggested to do this same conversion on my 93. The problem seems to be the 4x4 has a different engine cradle/x-member piece that supposedly has a domed like portion to allow for the front differential to my understanding. Other wise everything else should be a slam dunk.

I've also heard/seen some people claiming that the frame is wider but I have yet to find anywhere this is confirmed.

My solution was to just locate a unmolested 4x4 frame and strip it down to the bare frame, make my modifications, have it powder coated and
put all the components [like my S/C 4.0L]. Then I wanted to just swap the bed and cab from mine... Just still waiting for my Unobtanium card to hit the mailbox..lol
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  #5  
Old 01-31-2017, 06:07 PM
stang99x stang99x is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

If you don't mind a large investment in time, money and effort (read: more like skint knuckles and lots of profanity) then it can be done. You're best bet would be to do as you mention and find a frame that is 4x4 setup already and transfer your desired to be kept parts onto that frame. The easiest way would be to find one that you could essentially remove the cab from and install your cab. But you could do as you said and start from bare and powercoat and move it all over. From a monetary standpoint, it's not worth it. If it is however worth it to you from a sentimental standpoint, then by all means go forth and conquer.
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Old 01-31-2017, 06:29 PM
whiskeymike whiskeymike is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

The only way i'd do it is for straight axles. Not much different than a SAS on a 4x4, just need a transfer case. Need a front shaft but that would need made anyway.

When you can find 4x4 rangers the same age as yours for cheap, it's not cost effective to switch over to a stock setup.

----------

If your finding a donor truck is easier to fix whatever is wrong with it than switching cabs, etc.
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Old 02-01-2017, 07:25 AM
Jimmyspy Jimmyspy is offline
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Originally Posted by Undrstm8ed View Post
A little more involved than this so I am told.. I have everything you have suggested to do this same conversion on my 93. The problem seems to be the 4x4 has a different engine cradle/x-member piece that supposedly has a domed like portion to allow for the front differential to my understanding. Other wise everything else should be a slam dunk.
Ah, I was not aware of this. Makes sense though. Thanks for clarifying.
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  #8  
Old 02-01-2017, 07:55 AM
dixie_boysles dixie_boysles is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

A solid axle swap would be easier than trying to swap stock 4wd parts onto a non 4wd
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  #9  
Old 02-01-2017, 10:15 AM
Undrstm8ed Undrstm8ed is offline
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Default Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4

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Originally Posted by Jimmyspy View Post
Ah, I was not aware of this. Makes sense though. Thanks for clarifying.
Yea, since I found out that much i've put my conversion on hold both because of unsureness that I haven't missed anything I would need for the swap and due to the fact there's so much controversy in the task.Ideally I have everything but the electric motor that engages the transfer case into the 4x4 high/low

Now the solid axle thing sounds like a great idea too as I have thought of doing SAS but it looked a bit involved more so to me and if I was to do it. I'd probably skip using a Ranger drive train and do the minimum of a Dana 35 if not 44's.

So much to consider.
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