M5OD 2wd to 4wd conversion

[pearldrumbum]

I am swapping out my 2.9 for a 2.3t

I have 2 m50d's, a v6 4x4 version with a chunk taken out of first gear, and a working 2.3 2wd version. I was thinking i could just swap the tail shaft housings and have what i need (cuz I'm going to need the 2.3 bellhousing, but I want to keep my 4x4). After removing the the tail housings, I realized they wont just swap, the bolts line up, but the 2wd tail shaft is longer, so it looks like i need to swap internals too.

My question is, what all do i need to swap? Everything, or just what's connected to the tail shaft? Should I buy a rebuild kit, or can I just straight swap parts?

Also, if there is something in the tech library about this, I couldnt find it. And please don't waste your time if this has been asked before, a simple link to the thread would mean the world to me! thanks!

 

[AllanD]

The part that's pysically different between a 2wd and a 4x4 is the shaft itself.

As for dismantlinfg the trans?

Not terribly difficult, nor is reassembly.

Identifying bad parts isn't "Rocket Science" either.

However what requires experience and skill is being able to tell
a a good part from an ALMOST good part.

it's the "almost good" parts in this world that wind up
biting you on the ass.

AD

 

[TAAGMAN]

Allan,

Awesome quote... just wanted to say that.

 

[AllanD]

Thanks

Yeah, I seem to have a talent for being quoteable.

But transmission parts in particular it's the detail you don't
notice that will provide the "gotcha".

I've been bit myself.

AD

 

[pearldrumbum]

welll that kinda sucks, just means more work i guess.

Im not too worried about the "good" parts, the 2wd tranny i have only had 60,000 miles on it and it worked flawlessly when it was in a truck. I know that doesnt gaurantee anything but im willing to take the risk on a free transmission when i feel the risk is actually lower than buying a used one with no idea of its history...

thanks for the info AllenD

 

[Taragon]

Swap the guts of te 2.3 trans into the 2.9 housing.

The ratios are the same, and the guts swap perfectly.

Swap EVERYTHING as a set. Use the 2wd guts as spares for the 4wd trans. And be sure you pay extra close attention to the "dot" on the 5th revers shift collar. it shoudl face the rear of the trans. Other wise, you wont have 5th gear. And while this can be fixed IN-vehicle....its still a PITA!!!

If you wanna know how to tear it down and swap, use my write up:
http://therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?p=100093#post100093