This is more of a curiosity question than anything else, and I couldn't find an answer in a number of searches. So...

I have a 97 F350 2WD. Is it possible to swap the front end out for the solid front axle from a 2wd F450/Superduty? Doing so would be more for looks than much else, since I always liked the high stance of the SD and other 4wd regular cab dually trucks, but never got my hands on one. I would assume a small lift for the rear would be in order to keep the truck level.

If the frame will accept such a swap, would I need to switch to 10-lug wheels too, or is it possible to use my 8-lug brakes on the SD hubs?

 

You have coil springs and Twin I beam now. F-superdutys have leaf springs and a Solid I beam axle.

In order to put the leaf springs in your truck you need leaf hangers. The rear ones are easy, they literally bolt in place. Right about where your radius are brackets are. the front, are the tough ones. The F-superduty and 4wd F250/f350 have boxed from frame horns. YOURS are NOT. So you would need to box them to hang the shackle for the leaf spring. Also keep in mind, f-superduty sits about 4" higher than a 2wd F350 So you would need to lit the rear to level the truck out

As for using your 8 lug hubs.... NO GO they use different size stuff so you are STUCK with the 10 lug stuff

 

That's the exact answer I was looking for. It sounds like a lot more work and expense than it's worth.