Frames the same???

[Twisted4x4]

Just curious, but are there any differences between 2wd and 4wd frames of the 1st and 2nd gen rangers?? Ive got an 89 4x4 reg cab short bed, and my dad just gave me his 88 2wd reg cab long bed. Ive got the stock d28 and 7.5 in my 89 and thinking about upgrading to the d35 and 8.8. Dad suggested I take my old axles and put them under the 88. I know the rear will be an easy swap, but what about the front??

Jon

 

[railman]

no, they aren't the same......front crossmember is different between a 2wd and a 4wd...

could go to a JY and get a 4wd crossmember and swap it in for the 2wd then ya good to go....but not sure how much work it would be


l8r, John

 

[Twisted4x4]

Thanks. Thats what I was thinking. Im sure as with anything frame related it would be a complete pain to do.


Jon

 

[4x4junkie]

Yeah, might be easier to go SAS if you're converting a 2WD Ranger to 4x4.

If the truck won't see real hard use (such as it being used for a winter DD) and tires will be no bigger than 33", a (dare I say it) Jeep D30 axle would be something to consider throwing under there. They're literally everywhere and can be had for next to nothing (if not nothing).
The 30 is a fair bit stronger than that old D28 as well, but if you were building a trail toy, I'd then suggest something better such as a Wagoneer D44.