2wd vs 4wd Ranger 85

[brollyson]

Does anyone know if a 2wd frame/body can support a 4wd from same year/type of ranger -- talking 1985 here. Both have 2.3L both have manual. Want to use the 2wd and make it into a 4wd -- just not sure of the frame changes that might need to be modified. Any assist appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Spott]

I believe the body and frame rails are the same, however the transmission crossmember must be moved, and the front suspension mounts may be different.

I also believe the Gen1 Rangers only offered 4wd behind the V6 engines, so the Mitsubishi FM transmissions that will support a 4wd transfer case won't bolt to the 2.3l block. So, you'll either need the V6, an automatic transmission with the correct bell housing, or some funny transmission solutions.

And of course, you'll need the entire front suspension (including front drivetrain) and hubs, the transmission, transfer case, and shorter driveshaft, and whatever parts are needed to make the rear axle gearing match the front.

If you want to end up with a stock-ish 4wd, you'll need so many parts that it would probably be easier to swap your existing body onto the 4wd chassis, than try to move all the 4wd parts into your existing truck.

 

[bobbywalter]

there were probably more 4x4 gen 1 4cyl rangers then the rest combined.



your frame will not allow a 4x4 swap with stock parts without modification....these trucks have 2wd and 4x4 k members for the front suspension....though it can be converted with a 4x4 front member swap or simply use a dana 30 straight axle from a jeep....which works good.


if i wanted a 4cyl 4x4 the dana 30 would be my first choice starting with a 4x4 chassis.