Super Budget Build

[ckblum]

I just bought a 96 Mazda B3000 2wd. I had a 87 4x4 Ranger before but since I am going to school I needed something better on gas but still a truck.

So far Ive just put LT235/75/15 tires on it, bought used for $150.

What are some good mods I can do for real cheap? I found a 1990 Ranger 8.8 but my Dad said that it won't fit because it is 2" narrower than the newer trucks apparently. The 8.8 has an LS and 3.73 so that would be a huge upgrade for cheap if it would fit.

Anyone got any suggestions for a cheap suspension set-up? I was thinking some leveling coils and Bilstein 5100 in the front and just leaving the back stock with maybe some Rancho's. Any ideas?

I also have an 88 4x4 parts Ranger, dunno if anything off there would be of any use.

I'll have to put some pics up of my truck.

 

[CopyKat]

Run F150 TIB beams with some extended rad arms.

Nothing wrong with using the 90 Ranger 8.8 Ya it is a bit narrower but it is a bolt on. Just need new U-bolts and the correct driveshaft flange, assuming your truck is a 7.5 now.
Pinion flange is different.

 

[marcehboy]

F150 beams will bolt up?

 

[ckblum]

I heard F150 beams won't work because the bend is different? I would do that but I dunno if I have enough time/skill to do it.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

the d44 TTB is not a bolt in swap. its also considerably wider than the stock ranger axle...so it would look goofy running a wider-than-stock axle in front and your narrower-than-stock 8.8 in back. theres also legality issues there.

 

[ckblum]

I think he meant 2wd I beams, not the D44. I never seen people swap those beams in so I don't know how easy/possible it it.

 

[marcehboy]

Yah the beams. Are they the same were it bolts up to the spindle and the frame? They could be bent no problem with a torch but its all about things bolting up.

 

[ckblum]

Unless they are forged I don't think it'd be a good idea to bend them. Also getting the bends right to clear the frame and have correct alignment.

 

[ckblum]

How would the front springs from an 88 2.9 ex cab 4x4 work? Would it be way too stiff or just a bit stiffer? Would they lift the front end a bit too?