2wd conversion( removing front pig and axle shafts to lighten front end) questions

[4byRANGER]

im practically done with my 4x4 to 2wd switch, im going to turn use my dana 35 ends and build a set of extended beams..

but for the time being the front feels like a damn sled, and i figure if i take out the front PIG assembly with the shafts it should help a little right??

the beams are super strong but without that PIG on the driver side beam am i risking folding the beam?

im only doing street driving and occasional small freeway trips as it is my DD

 

[Ranger44]

Your much better off swapping to a set of 2wd explorer beams. They'll swap right in place of your TTB beams. They offer a true 2wd condition, and simplicity.

With emptying a TTB setup you leave the back side of the knuckle exposed. This can let water back in through the spindle and into your hubs/bearings.

However, the best way to convert a TTB truck to 2wd is take all that crap out, makeup some sort of plate that'll take the pig's pattern. Then find something to add support at the pinch bolt area. Then modify the stub shafts(cut the ears off) and attach them behind the knuckle to seal the spindle.

The biggest thing I'd worry about is stressing the steel beam. Without the pig bolted to the drivers side it'd risk this. Just look at how the passenger side beam is built vs the driver's side. The pig was meant to be there.