1989 4wd to 2wd

[dahunter_2007]

I just picked up a 1989 extended cab 2.9 4x4 "rolling chassis" (no motor/trans/driveshafts) real cheap from a friend of mine. He was gonna put a 302 into it but ran out of $$. The body is in really good condition and I have a 1991 4x4 extended cab ranger with the 2.9 in it.

Originally I was just going to swap the 91 components over to the 89, but since this is going to be strictly a dd I was thinking bout making it a 2wd for fuel mileage. I also have a 1993 reg cab 2wd ranger with a 2.3 as a parts truck.

I know to do the conversion I heed to swap engine x-members but would the 93 2.3 x-member and front suspension work with the 89 2.9 without too much fab work?

Also assuming I get the x-member figured out, What else would I need? just a Driveshaft from a 2wd extended cab and 2wd trans tail housing (or just complete trans)? Or am I missing something?

Hope y'all followed along with me on this long post, any advise would be appreciated! Thanks in advance!!

 

[canyoncritter]

find a 2wd broncoII and get the piviot brackets and beams/spindles etc from it. a 91-94 2wd exploder will work too.That way you wont have to switch crossmembers.be all bolt in.

 

[AllanD]

Driving a 4x4 with the hubs unlocked is no different from a 2wd mileage wise.

People are suprised to discover just how little weight difference 4x4 makes on a TTB Ranger...

It's about 125#

The thing is the solid iron beam axles of the 2wd aren't lightweights

Leave it 4w4 because it's easier to leave it that way than swap it back if your needs change (or if you ever want to sell it)

 

[Hagan]

Driving a 4x4 with the hubs unlocked is no different from a 2wd mileage wise.

Besides the tire size and being lower to the ground (less drag)

 

[dahunter_2007]

Sorry I haven't been on here lately. Thanks for your info It was very helpful! I decided to just keep it 4wd for now but will keep what canyoncritter said in mind if I ever decide to go 2wd. Thanks for the help guys!