Live axle in 2000?

[bigmark303]

I am in the market for a 2000 4x4 Ranger 4.0L with the live axle. Was there a certain date in which they switched over? I cant find much info on when the switch from PVH to live happened.

I want a 2000 only because I want the 4.0L pushrod and not the 4.0L OHC engine. Id rather the truck be factory then do the live axle swap from an explorer.

I only ask because I am looking at trucks 400-600 miles away that are in hot climates with no road salt. I live in the rust belt and I will never find a 2000 in good shape around me.

Thank you

 

[Mac]

I believe it started in March of 2000, that's the build date of mine that is live (I was told).
Dave

 

[exbass94]

If you want a live axle, you can buy a truck with the PVH hubs and modify them so they're permanently locked. Search around here; a lot of guys have done it.