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01-30-2017, 07:29 PM
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Learning to use the forums
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Posts: 2
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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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01-30-2017, 08:30 PM
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Ford Tough
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Join Date: Oct 2016
Posts: 318
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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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01-30-2017, 08:36 PM
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Ford Ranger Driver
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Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,172
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Knigh7mare
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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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.
__________________
2002 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4, ext. cab, 4.0L v6
Superlifted 33x12.5 Duratracs
1995 Ford Ranger STX 4x4 ext. cab 4.0l v6 SOLD
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01-31-2017, 02:39 PM
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Habenae Est Dominatus
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Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,893
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Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jimmyspy
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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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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01-31-2017, 06:07 PM
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Ford Pickup
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Join Date: Jan 2017
Posts: 108
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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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White 1998 Ranger XLT SuperCab 4.0 4x4 StepSide
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01-31-2017, 06:29 PM
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Ford Tough
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Join Date: May 2016
Posts: 427
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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.
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If your finding a donor truck is easier to fix whatever is wrong with it than switching cabs, etc.
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97 xlt stepside
2.3 m5od
210,000
6/6 drop
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02-01-2017, 07:25 AM
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Ford Ranger Driver
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Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 2,172
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Undrstm8ed
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.
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Ah, I was not aware of this. Makes sense though. Thanks for clarifying.
__________________
2002 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4, ext. cab, 4.0L v6
Superlifted 33x12.5 Duratracs
1995 Ford Ranger STX 4x4 ext. cab 4.0l v6 SOLD
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02-01-2017, 07:55 AM
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5.Oh All the way
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Join Date: May 2009
Posts: 6,603
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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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2014 F150 SuperCrew XLT 4x4
275/65/17 Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Shorty Antenna | Tinted Windows | ProClip Phone Mount |5.0 v8 |Tow Package | Oxford White
Sold/Totaled: 2006 Ranger XLT 2D SuperCap 4x4 Torch Red
15x8 Pacer 164P Polished Wheels | 31x10.50 BFG ATs | Level II Tow Hooks | FX4 Red Insert Seats
Tinted Windows | 6000K HIDs | Kobalt Low Profile Toolbox | Pioneer Speakers
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02-01-2017, 10:15 AM
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Habenae Est Dominatus
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Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,893
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Re: Convert 2wd to 4x4
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jimmyspy
Ah, I was not aware of this. Makes sense though. Thanks for clarifying.
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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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