1999 PVH to Explorer live axle questions

[4wd]

I just replaced my '94 TTB truck with a '99 IFS truck and I am not happy with the PVH hubs on my '99 and reading the forum I've got three options:

1) modify my current PVH hubs to permanent lock or push to lock.
2) convert to AVM manual locking hubs
3) swap in 95+ explorer live axles and complete hub assemblies

I am leaning towards the explorer option even though it is more work to complete. I am ok with the live axle and possible loss of fuel economy. I have read whatever threads that I can find on the swap, but still have questions for anyone who has done the swap.

1) I think I can keep my current front diff and the explorer axles should fit into the ranger diff, or must I grab the explorer diff?

2) I understand that the front wheels, driveshafts will be always locked and rotating, but will I always be in 4WD or does the '99 ranger transfer case control the separation of the front and rear in 2WD mode?

 

[srteach]

The transfer case on the 99 transmission does the disconnect for the front axle. I went with the AVM hub locks and love them.

 

[77'cj7]

You can keep your current diff. All you really need is hub assemblies and axles from an explorer. I would recommend buying new hub assemblies at the time, no reason to run used wheel bearings.

Your transfer case will still disengage, giving 2wd.

Also, newer rangers (01 up I believe) run the same axle setup as the explorers, so thats another place to get parts from.

 

[cauhcons]

can i keep the axle from the ranger 99 and just change the hub for an explorer one...

 

[hondaxr650]

can i keep the axle from the ranger 99 and just change the hub for an explorer one...

You don't have to change the whole diff. assembly but you need the c/v axles and hubs from an explorer or a mid 2000 and up ranger. They changed to the live axle on the rangers in around june or july of 2000.

 

[cauhcons]

i found that part on part geek do you think i could just buy that and keep my original cv axles... and have live axles as this part is w/o Pulse Vacuum Hub

First Equipment Quality Wheel Hub Assembly - Front
Your Price: $90.94
Quantity:

Part Number: W0133-1705231
Notes: w' 4 Wheel ABS. - w/o Pulse Vacuum Hub - Includes: A.B.S. Sensor, Hub Carrier, Wheel Hub, Wheel Studs and Wheel Bearing.

This Product Fits the Following:
• 1999 Mazda B4000 4WD

 

[hondaxr650]

i found that part on part geek do you think i could just buy that and keep my original cv axles... and have live axles as this part is w/o Pulse Vacuum Hub

First Equipment Quality Wheel Hub Assembly - Front
Your Price: $90.94
Quantity:

Part Number: W0133-1705231
Notes: w' 4 Wheel ABS. - w/o Pulse Vacuum Hub - Includes: A.B.S. Sensor, Hub Carrier, Wheel Hub, Wheel Studs and Wheel Bearing.

This Product Fits the Following:
• 1999 Mazda B4000 4WD

No, the live axle setup has completely different outer ends on the shafts. Put the live axle hub assemblies on the pvh shafts and you won't make it 100 feet before your new bearings are destroyed.
The pvh hub assemblies are designed to stay together on their own. The live axle hubs need the axle bolted through them to hold the bearing together.