Alright question time.

[PhillipAshfordJr]

So, exactly how hard would it be for me to find a 4x4 ranger that's "totalled" but it for cheap and just take the 4x4 parts and put it on mine.

 

[PhillipAshfordJr]

I just need a basis of what all would need to be swapped, and time consumption and such. I have any tools needed so that's not a problem.

 

[2trux]

I helped a friend do this 30 yrs ago. What I remember was using the engine/trans/transfer case, & front axle. We also had to remove the engine cross member and use the one from the 4X4 (to have the axle mounts). He went from a 4cyl to an 6cyl but I don't remember what he used for the computer.
This was on a TTB truck. Since you didn't specify the year I don't know what you have for front suspension but I would assume the process is similar for IFS.

As for finding a totaled truck for cheap, who knows!

 

[adsm08]

Your frame probably doesn't have the points to mount the front axle. If you have coil spring suspension you have a very different setup from the 4x4. It was hard on the TTB trucks, it gets harder on the IFS trucks.

 

[PhillipAshfordJr]

Its a 2001 xlt extended cab. What would be easiest seeing I dont need to pay for labor. I want 4x4 but not a new truck.

 

[prerunner]

Probably the easiest method of converting your 2001 to a 4x4 would be to source a transmission / transfer case and rear driveshaft from a 4x4 Ranger from Craigslist (or the for sale listings on TRS) then adapt a Jeep Dana 30 and Y style mounts. Many on here have done it.
http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Dana30.shtml
Escort's Dana 30 SAS as an example: http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=105470

Just throwing it out there as an option.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

Or put your body onto the new 4x4 frame.

 

[don4331]

PAjr:

Few more questions: Coil springs or torsion bars aka edge? How 'stock' do you want it (lifted/dash switched engagement/etc)? What are your mechanical abilities? (wrenching, welding, wiring, etc)

If you have an Edge, you can do the swap, 1 piece at a time (queue Johnny Cash). There is a little welding (couple brackets) but nothing major.

If it is coil spring, you are looking at Prerunner/alwaysFlOoReD's solutions.

In any case, having a written off '01 4x4 (ideally, S/C with same transmission) for parts is useful (assuming you have some where to put it while dismantling).

 

[PhillipAshfordJr]

I have a full shop at my disposal. Lift, tools, etc. And if I can't weld it I know many that can seeing im taking classes and know certified welders as well. Something so simple seems easy enough. Going to put out there how little I know about rangers, all I know about mine is it is a stock 01 xlt rwd "flare side"/"step side". Except for the exhaust which is just cut off at the muffler then stuck dual tips coming off both sides.