Converting a 1982 Econoline van to 4x4

[adsm08]

Bend the beams. That's the way I had to adjust the camber on my old 2wd F350 after I lowered it. It used to be common practice on I-beam Fords.

Which is why the later ones, after they went to ball joints, have "do not heat or bend" cast on them.

 

[Jim Oaks]

So, I'm torn between converting to 4x4, or just doing a small lift and keeping it 2wd with a rear locker. Is there anything I need to know about the '82 E-150 front beams with king pins before I decide what I'm going to do?

I thought the r/f tire leaned a little weird and suspected a bad ball joint, but that obviously isn't a bad ball joint.

I would also like to replace the front springs for a 2-inch lift, but I'm not sure what I can use for a spring (F-150 coils or an E-250 coil).

 

[MastuhWaffles]

Some of the vans they build now are pretty awesome.