Hello, I am new to this forum and I have a question that I have not been able to get an answer to: Can I convert my 2002 Mazda B3000 3.0L 4x2 Dual Sport pickup to 4WD? I have been told that the DS models have a 4x4 suspension and are basically a 4WD truck without the transfer case and front diff. and other 4WD parts. Is this accurate?

If it is possible, since the Ranger and B series are basically the same truck, could I look for a junked Ranger or B Series 4WD and cannibalize tha parts (provided they are not damaged, of course)?

Thanks in advance,

George

 

Yeah, if you have the torsion bar front suspension, it would be easier to convert than a regular 4x2. Still, you are looking at a nightmare trying to install the axle, transfer case, half shafts, driveshaft, electronics, etc. It's a lot more of a job than people realize, and it would cost lots of $$$.

 

How could I tell if I have the torsion bar front suspension? (Obviously I am not a mechanic ) I notice that there are two protrusions next to the front wheels that look like brackets that have nothing bolted on...

 

The torsion bars are two long bars of steel that reach from the front axles near the wheels back to the mid-section of the truck. If you have the Dual Sport Mazda, I think it's the same thing as a Ranger Edge...which does have the torsion bar suspension just like the 4x4s. The torsion bars twist...you wouldn't imagine that steel could twist, but it does and that's what provides the force to hold up the front of the truck.

 

A quick jaunt out to the parking garage reveals that I do have torsion bars. To be certain, I took a peek under a Ranger FX4 as well and the torsion bars look identical.

 

Does anyone know how far back I could use Ford/Mazda 4WD parts for my 2002 B3000?

 

Ford/Mazda 4x4 components have been virtually the same from mid-2000 to current. From 1998- early 2000 they were also the same as current except the front half-shafts and hubs were different.

 

So would 4WD parts from a 1998 work even though there is a difference?

 

Basically. What I'm saying is, 1998 4x4 parts would "fit", but they would be the "old" pulse-vacuum system that was less reliable. The newer system is more reliable but sacrifices fuel economy. The difference was with the hubs. 98-early 00 models had free-spinning wheels...the hubs would disconnect in 2WD. Now everything in the front end is permanently connected together. Less to worry about, but more for the engine to spin which reduces gas mileage.

 

Would I need to replace the transmission as well, or could the transfer case connect to my existing tranny? (5spd manual)

 

The driveshafts will be different lengths, not sure on the transmission. I don't think Ford uses a different transmission, I think the ones that get a T-case just have the T-case bolted in-line with the tranny so there aren't really any differences in the tranny itself. But again I have never had mine out yet so I'm not sure about that.

 

I confirmed with a Mazda service guy that the tranny would need an adapter to bolt to the Transfer case- he said there is no difference between transmissions whether 2WD or 4WD. I got a quote for the Transfer case, front axle package (including hubs, etc.), and the two driveshafts- @$1450.00

Not too bad...

 

4-wheel-drive is about a $3K option (going by MSRP) so the figures you are coming up with on the price of parts should be pretty close. The nightmare would be the labor involved in actually installing those parts. If you do take on this project post your results here because other people have asked this question before too. Good luck!

 

Is there any good source to get an exploded diagram/schematic of a B Series or Ranger front end, both with and without 4WD to see the actual differences?

 

Find a wrecked 4wd truck with a good frame and swap the bed and cab onto that.

Sell what you have left over and come out close to even.

I almost guarantee that you will quit while trying to piece this stuff together! Even studying all the shop manuals you can buy may not help you....

Or just put a "FOR SALE" sign on what you have and get your desired result the easy way.