2wd to 4wd

[2.8broncoII]

i have an 88 ranger thats 2wd... its a 2.9 5 speed. I need to put a clutch and tranny in it anyways so i figured why not swap to 4x4 while im at it. Im just wondering how hard it is to do the sawp. Im prolly going to go with a
d35. i already have a 4 inch r/c lift with shocks from my old b2. will these parts cross over to the new front axle.... and what parts do i need to get from the donor truck.... do i need the ibeam brackets and rad arm brackets from the donor? I have a drop pitman to swap over and for the steering all i do is flip over both tie rod ends right?
any help is MUCH appreciated!

[Jspafford]

I am pretty sure you have to change out the engine crossmember on a ranger to do this swap. Most people will tell you it's not worth it.

On the B2's though, it's easy as pie.

[2.8broncoII]

man thats more than i thought.... will a crossmember from a 4x4 b2 work?

[MAKG]

I really can't advise frame modifications to someone who doesn't know the ramifications.

The parts you need are a 4x4 truck.

[krugford]

Blunt, but true.

A 4x4 conversion from a 4x2 in a Ranger has been done before, but seriously, sell the truck and get a 4x4. A solid axle swap would work if you have the tools and skills. If anything, swap your body onto a 4x4 rolling chassis.

[2.8broncoII]

i see, i just thought it would make a good project because the body and frame are in such good shape... but ohh well i guess.

[2.8broncoII]

the motor would need to be pulled off the motor mounts and then the rivets would need to be drilled out... thats it right? could i just bolt the one from the bronco into the ranger, or would it need to be welded or riveted?