Most older pickup trucks came with either a solid front axle or a double wishbone independent suspension design. solid axle swap im thinkin of doin a SAS i found a dana 44 completly rebuilt with supposedly all necessary linkage for 650.00. does this sound to good to be true. However, there seems to be a lot of inquiries about 4×2 to 4×4 conversion kits on almost all the popular 4×4 discussion forums and what kits are available out there. This isn’t so it can use bigger tires; although that certainly is a desired side effect for many 4WD owners (a note on tire size later), but so the axle will fit below the engine and front crossmember. truck for a used 4×4. The ready assembled suspension kit will roughly set you back anything from $2000 upwards. The easiest thing to do would be to put a solid front axle under the 2wd truck after the IFS is all cut out. There’s a lot more mechanical and engineering All the Parts You Need The Trail Gear SAS kit makes it possible to replace an IFS suspension with a solid axle. Turns out the 4×4 Dakota is exactly the same as the 4×2. There are production starts off differently from the outset than that of the 2WD models. Oh those days of being young and dumb. In 1990, Ford introduced a 4.0 liter V6 in the Ford Ranger. If you are mechanically inclined you could get a lot of the above work done yourself. The Ford Dana 44: The Ford Dana 44 is probably the easiest to swap using coil springs and radius arms. For any questions or queries, you can reach me directly at: info@4wheeldriveguide.com, When doing a big tire upgrade, there are so many options available, it can get quite confusing. I had an incentive to work fast as I had to ride my motorcycle to work in December, snow and ice was fun. Truth is if you really want to convert your 88-98 Chevy from 2WD to 4WD you need the following: These are I bought the truck with 3890 miles on it as a salvage vehicle. Ford Rangers use a different chassis design to the 4×2 derivatives, meaning But because this vehicle height increase also results in the front axle having more travel, two important modifications must be made: 1. 5:45. Jared and his lifted Ford Ranger with a 351 and a solid front axle swap. Remove and Replace control arms, springs and If however, you own an XL or XLT with the coil spring suspension that has IFS 4×4, you would have to swap to a 4×4 frame that has the torsion bar suspension. You will require a new rear driveshaft too. not limited to: Once you’ve sourced the above components/parts you next need to purchase the ready-made kit or you could source these suspension items from the donor vehicle, and save a buck or two. Whenever you research this topic the first few responses are always the same and for good reason. The 4×4 There are Rear Axles Used: All Ford Rangers came with a 7.5-Inch axle from 1983-1989. All 31-Spline Axle Shafts Except 1990-2011 Ford Ranger (FX4 Models Were 31-Spline) Applications: 1984-1996 Ford Bronco; 1990-2011 Ford Ranger (58.50-Inch WMS to WMS) 1991-2001 Ford Explorer (The Ford Explorer Sport still used the solid rear 8.8 until ... but will still fit older axles with the proper conversion bearings. An important point to remember: You will need a 4×4 ECU for a 96 model F150, which means any electronic additions will need to be compatible with a 96 and OBD2. © 2021 Four Wheeler | MOTOR TREND GROUP, LLC. for used parts. It’s a ton The 4×4 Ford Rangers use a different chassis design to the 4×2 derivatives, meaning production starts off differently from the outset than that of the 2WD models. SpynTec Hub Conversion Kit For Ford 99-08 Superduty Axle to Jeep 07-17 JK Swap. How much would it cost? Conversion Kit, Make sure you get a manual-shift transfer case and stick with the same transmission type for the same reason. Ben Battles Photographer, Writer. Which sounds like Ranger. Some kits also specify lift spring perch measurements or require the use of spacers. also i was wondering if any one had done this and can give me a list of parts or mabey some tips. A friend ran 6 inch suspension 3 inch body to clear 33 thornbirds way back in the day (he really hated those tires) on his Ranger. Application: - Truck: 80-96 F150/Bronco- Springs: 85-97 52" F … Radius Arms: Either extensions from the radius arm ends from the frame or longer radius ar… So really Bronco axles are a natural choice to go under a Ranger. All bolt-on, mounts using stock motor mount holes, our 5261B Coil Tower bolts and two others drilled in engine cross member. The most common axle swapped in the the Ranger though has been the full-width Dana 44. The bracket has the mounting provisions on it for the diff. Very possibly. Most of the parts can be sourced off craigslist or eBay from somebody parting a truck. Some more expensive than expected, and the end product didn’t work as well as hoped. parts on the old Fords are all compatible right as far back as 84 models so So we’ve covered, in great detail, the pros and cons of converting your standard 4×2 to a 4×4 in this a previous article which you can find here titled: Can you Convert a 2wd to 4wd (adding 4wd to a truck). Bret This will be the easiest, quickest and least frustrating approach. So there are ready-made conversion kits available for 2” upgrades ready for purchase online. Your parts availability should be easier. ... 2019 Ford Ranger XLT FX4, 2014 Mustang GT P-1SC-1 Stage II, 2013 Ford Escape SEL Vehicle Showcase 1. 4×4 conversion can be done relatively “easy” if you go for the much It differs with extra suspension parts and different programming. Good luck with your project. unfortunately no pre-assembled suspension conversion kits for the Chevy 2500HD. All the front suspension, transmission cross-member, and torsion bar cross-member parts are the same. Remove your Silverado 4×2 transmission for modification/swap. The program allows this site to link and advertise with Amazon.com. Kit is weld on, requires knowledge of suspension design and fabrication/welding skills. 1998 Explorer XLT 4.0 sohc 5r55e 1354 manual 1982 Jeep Wagoneer Dana 44 front axle 4.88:1 Yukon gears Detroit Truetrac Passenger side flat top knuckle (73-76 Chevy) milled and drilled by Sky Mfg Passenger side Sky Mfg tall high steer arm Small bearing spindles (73-76 Chevy) 5x5.5 hubs, rotors and wheel bearings (Ford Dana 44 ttb) Stock rear axle 4.88:1 Yukon gears Detroit locker … Solid Axle Swap Part 2 - Duration: 5:45. He specifically mentions from the outset that it’s not a comprehensive guide, but rather a good place to start and highlights some important challenges to look out for. 4. Broncos run on the Range. We carry all the top brands in Off Road parts and truck accessories including Fabtech, Procomp, Superlift, ORU, Warn, KMC, American Racing, Super Swamper, Daystar, AFE, Bestop, Fox, Hella, PIAA, Rancho, and 50 more at the lowest prices anywhere. The 4×2 to A used transfer case with a new rebuild kit will be a solid option to keep the operation simple and costs low. would strongly advise that if you really need a 4×4 rather trade/sell your Check out high-quality components, made in the USA, to take your ranger up a level. Track Bar Mounting hole is 3/4″, for use with heims & spacers or large bushings. 4-Wheel drives and off-road driving techniques has been my passion for over 20 years. There is, fortunately, one very brave and wise gentleman who owns a CHEV 06 LBZ was so kind as to share his experience with his 4×2 to 4×4 conversion process on his 06 LBZ Chevy truck with detailed pics. Also do solid axle front conversions. It’s the follow-up installment to Short Range, Part 1 in which we build a pair of early Bronco axles to sling under a 1995 Ranger. The most obvious and popular response to converting your 4×2 to a 4×4 is to rather buy a donor truck and a swap the parts out, or simply sell your 4×2 and purchase a used 4×4, yes, we’ve heard it all before. Full Width Axle Swap FRONT Cage extended tubular radius arms 6 1/2" W/Winch BC Bronco springs F-250 front shock mount (with 3/16” 2”X4” tube spacer) bolted and welded to frame Rancho RS99261 shocks front Superlift Adjustable Trac-Bar for 76-79 F100-F150 (Modified) Superlift Extended brake lines for 89-97 RANGER, BRONCO II, 90-94 EXPLORER (Modified calipers) Warn Premium hubs … 4WD was not a simple bolt-on option that is simply added later when a customer orders a new Ranger. You will still need to source a donor truck at a junkyard and purchase the following components before you can proceed. trick to converting a 4×2 to a 4×4 is actually in the year model. Description DIY Leaf Spring Solid axle conversion for the 80-96 era Ford F-150 and Bronco coil sprung TTB (Twin Traction Beam) 4x4 trucks. From 1990-2011, all 4.0L Ford Rangers came equipped with a 8.8-Inch axle, but the Ford 7.5-Inch axle was still available in other Ranger models. frameworks. a 4×4. 32 x 11.50's swampers worked real well with ifs 3 1/2 lift 3 body and cut outs before the axle swap. This means the site earns advertising fees through Amazon. Regular price $1,550 00 $1,550.00. no bolt-on conversion kits available for 4×2 to 4×4 Ford Rangers. This is not a necessity but only important if you want the 4WD light on the dash to be activated when you engage 4WD mode. Oct 30, 2017. About Us (Web Page). Bonus! Beef up your Ranger rear axle with Explorer 31 spline 8.8 with disc brakes. 2. Ranger front suspensions are complex. Still not going to be a walk in the park, however, let’s give it a crack. Source a Transfer Case shifter, with linkage. These axles also have larger 3.25 axle tubes. This domain, 4WheelDriveGiude.com, currently participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. every single online 2wd to 4wd conversion inquiry starts like this: “Hey guys I have a 1998 Chevy c1500 sidestep w/ 2wd and I really don’t like it that way. Here are a few things you’ll require when By clicking Sign Up, you agree to the  Terms of Use. The rear ... Maybe there are some compatible parts. Replace the extension housing with that from The process in theory is simple: the vehicle is put on a hoist, the original suspension removed and the chassis rails ground clean. Looking to swap in a straight/solid axle into your Ford Ranger (’83-’97)? Here we strive to provide the most accurate, up-to-date, information about the functionality, common faults and latest technology built into most 4 Wheel Drives. Wiring harness and plugs seem to already be in place. I can install the axle in your truck for $240 includes all parts for install. Below is a walk-through of what is required to get you started on converting your 4×2 Silverado to a 4×4. requires a professional touch. I have done all the dirty work for you and trolled the entire internet to source what 2wd to 4wd conversion kits are available for the more popular 4WD manufacturers out there and added some insight on the dos and don’ts of each project. 2.9/4.0 tested. - Duration: 3:16. Lt.Baldwin 233,661 views. of work and money and even more downtime. your parts for under $2000. no direct bolt-on 4×4 conversion kits for the Dodge Ram available. A live-axle conversion aims to fix both of these issues by physically replacing the complicated IFS set-up with a much simpler and stronger live axle. More inside 4Wheel & Off-Road Magazine. Not to mention metal cutting skills. These are all different between the 4×4 and 4×2 except for the shorter driveshaft unless there is a massive tail on the transmission of a 4×2. have attempted the swap. know-how required to successfully do it. Source a front diff including brackets, 9. If you shop around wisely you could source all I can regear to 4.56, 4.88, and 5.13 for extra $250. Great project Travis ! Oct 19, 2014 - Explore RJ Taylor's board "Solid axle swap" on Pinterest. At least that’s our thinking. Converting I would For SFA (solid front axle) 4×4 you can have any Ranger and you cut off the whole front suspension and mount a solid axle from a solid axle vehicle like a Jeep or an old F-150 from the 70s. So instead of you reading through pages of irrelevant clutter to find the answer, continue reading this article. 5:45. Most owners and forum members agree it’s not financially viable to do the conversion however it is possible. Good news for the Chevy boys, since this can and has been done before. Ford Ranger Solid Axle Swap (SAS) Over the years many Ranger enthusiasts have opted to swap out the TTB Dana 28 or Dana 35 front axle from their 4×4 Ranger for a 4×4 solid axle. Axle comes ready to install. Track Bar Bracket for doing a Solid Axle Swap under the front end of your Bronco II, 83-97 Ranger or 91-94 Explorer. cross members from a 4×4. Source cross member for the transfer case – So the Solid Axle Swap Part 2 - Duration: 5:45. Pretty much done with my solid axle swap parts hunt so just finding a time to install is my only problem. Then you can always piece together the 4×4 with the two-wheel-drive pieces and sell it and recoup some of the project cost. no welding required as pre-existing holes line up, 7. The suspension components needed for a 4×2 to 4×4 conversions include but not limited to: Next, let’s look into the upgrade procedures per vehicle. Worth a look! Many people See more ideas about axle, jeep wj, meccano models. experience and skills. The output shaft needs to be replaced with that of a 4×4 or you can choose to replace the transmission completely with a used 4×4 transmission from a donor Silverado 4×4. This Happy Wheeling! I took a 1980 Ford Courier (in 1980) and made it a 4x4 in 6 weeks time. You can have a look at that 2wd to 4wd Chevy conversion here. If you opt for the pre-92 version trucks, you make your life a whole lot easier since the same chassis frame was used throughout the production of 4×4 and 4×2 models. Largest Tires on Stock Nissan Titan XD (W/WITHOUT A LIFT), Biggest Tires on Stock Ram 2500 (W/Without a Lift). These trucks need a ton of lift to clear tires due to the fender well shape. Many sell the truck afterward to offset some of the costs involved, most times You’ll need to cut the top bracket off and welded it on the lower cross member on your 4×2. that makes sourcing parts a whole lot simpler. I’ve done all the spadework for you by trolling the web through multiple forums and articles to find the most reliable info on this conversion. Ford engineered the new Ranger as a rugged, sturdy, reliable pickup for a multitude of uses, but left a lot of room for improvement in its aesthetics and off-road capability. the OP saying “thanks everyone, I’ve decided to lift my truck 2” and keep it”. It is a lot of info on the conversion available online and a few forum members have appeared to successfully pull this off. Ford OBS Axle Conversion Kit (05+ Superduty Swap) $1,399.99 This is our entry level 05+ Superduty Axle Conversion Kit which was designed to use all the factory parts from the Superduty suspension and steering to keep things and simple as possible. Let’s dig in! 6. The next part of this article will cover which 4×2 trucks stand the best chance of successfully carrying out the conversion from 4×2 to 4×2 and what to look out for. Short Range Part 2: Solid Axle Swap on a Ford Ranger. For the solid front axle swap, the truck must be lifted at least four inches by using taller coil springs. With only 5 weeks until Ultimate Adventure, this 1997 Ford Ranger has a long way to go starting with a solid axle conversion. Almost Your primary goal should be […], Big tire upgrades are one of the most popular upgrades done on almost all makes of pickups, so this article will clear up the most commonly asked question, what the biggest tire I can fit to my truck.Let’s find out what the maximum size tire you can fir to a Ram 2500 with and without […], link to Largest Tires on Stock Nissan Titan XD (W/WITHOUT A LIFT), link to Biggest Tires on Stock Ram 2500 (W/Without a Lift), Convert 4×2 to 4×4 Ford Ranger “Sell your 4×2 and buy a used 4×4”. You will need some diff mounts. Then either get a different tail housing/shaft for the ally and source a transfer case OR run a divorced transfer case. Off Road Unlimited specializes in sales & fabrication of extreme off road vehicles & products, as well as our custom Solid Axle Conversion kits. The third, fourth, and fifth-generation Ford Bronco and seventh, eighth, and ninth-generation Ford F-150 are already pretty rugged vehicles as-is. Your drivetrain components like front driveshaft, transfer case can all be sourced from other Chrysler products that are direct fit like the factory NV244 & NV233 that are mechanical shifting. Junk/scrapyard shopping is always your best option in these kinds of projects. This was intentionally done to save both production time and building costs. Second would go to the early Ford Bronco Dana 44 followed by the Jeep Dana 30. Lt.Baldwin 238,452 views. These are for the most popular American makes and models especially for those with Dana axles. How hard is it to convert to 4wd? Obviously, if you drive a truck that was offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 derivatives you are in a much better position to source parts from a junkyard and buy most of the used parts at a reduced rate. I cannot cover every make and model, however, I’ve listed the most popular (online demand) requests below. any 2WD to a 4WD will require lots of cash and serious engineering and welding junkyard and source a SAS for the conversion”, Ending with In this scenario, you can mount an IFS front axle in and swap to 4×4. Tie rods I believe are the same Big thank you to some really smart people online who were so kind as to share this valuable information with us. 1. MORE DETAILS. pointers on converting your Chevy 2500HD from 2WD to 4WD: There are For IFS (Independent front suspension) 4×4 you will either need to own a 2006 Ford Ranger Sport which means it has the torsion bar front suspension. The idea started during a conversation on a long trip back from a weekend of wheeling. But on the mechanical side, you will need a C205F IFS axle (matching gear ration preferably) with two CV half shaft assemblies (the 4×2 hubs will work as 4×4 if the splines aren’t rusted out). Short Range Part 2: Solid Axle Swap on a Ford Ranger Part 2: Suspension and all the rest. 4wd Factory was created in 2001. Cool to resurrect a salvaged Ranger 5G I love doing that kind of work. But through both of its generations, the Ford Ranger kept it weird—just as I like it. To find Dodge Ram 1500 solid axle conversion kits or kits that fit other trucks or Jeeps, enter the vehicle year, make, model and submodel. The question we’re answering here is not what the biggest size tire is you can get away with, but rather the biggest tire you should fit without hampering performance both on and off-road. project can be done however, the time to do it and engineering expertise to This article isn’t going to be a step-by-step guide to swapping in a solid front axle, but more of an insight as to what’s involved. In both cases, you’ll require the suspension, front axle, transfer case, chassis components, 4×4 transmission, and both front and rear drive-shafts. Suspension When we refer traffic and it results in business sales as a result of it, we are compensated by these companies. 4×2 to 4×4 essential components include but are main options: IFS 4×4, SFA 4×4. correctly since there are all sorts of speed sensors and electric wiring that Dec 30, 2020 earlier models that have little to no electronics and very basic structures and And now, owners of 1980-1996 Ford Bronco and Ford F-150 models can seriously beef up their suspension with a new straight axle conversion kit from Desolate Motorsports. As for converting a 2500HD Chevy to 4×4 you need to keep a few things in mind. opting to convert a Ford. Now we’re actually hooking those axles up to the Ranger with a slick suspension from James Duff. See all 1 photos. recommend taking the transfer case to a professional garage to have it wired up This platform is designed to explain common 4-wheel-drive related problems and off-road driving techniques. Your information will be collected and used in accordance with our  Privacy Policy. However, the other option of buying a used scrap 4×4 or similar made and model for all the 4×4 parts and swap out the 4×4 essentially. There are no shared parts, including the chassis/frame and differential mounting points. Hope the info helps. Before I bought the truck I had a goal in mind to solid axle swap a new ranger. There are differences in the frames in that 4WD has box frame up front and mountings for front axle suspensions where the 2WD version does not. Most have regretted it since it turned out to be MUCH SolidAxle.com is the home of Spyntec Industries LLC, the manufacturer of Solid Axle Industries products. 3. The good news is that parts from Chevy trucks between 01-07c all use the same parts. If you go to a wrecking/scrap yard with a list of all your items needed they would put together a package deal at a much-reduced price. Unfortunately, no part numbers are listed. For SFA (solid front axle) 4×4 you can have any Ranger and you cut off the whole front suspension and mount a solid axle from a solid axle vehicle like a Jeep or an old F-150 from the 70s. but the pitman arm is different. what should the axle gear ratio be on a ford ranger with 31 in tires: rangerz: General Tech: 8: 03-20-2013 04:48 AM: Axle swap 97 ranger: Chalixo: Drivetrain Tech: 3: 03-29-2012 03:12 PM: Axle/gear swap complete! First attempt at starting 1957 AUTOCAR truck ... 1983 Ford Ranger D30 Solid Axle Swap. The general consensus was that it’s not a financially feasible option versus selling your current 4×2 and purchasing a used 4×4. It’s always the same. This avoids many electronic problems later, The 4×4 frame has front differential mounting brackets that the 2wd doesn’t. Expenses involved with this project