1978 2wd swapped to 4x4???

78'fordman · #1 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 09:04 PM

hello first off i have a 1978 f100 2wd i want to swap it to 4wd are there any diffrences in the f-100 and f-150? i was thinking of taking a late 70's early 80's f150 4wd and rob it for parts. if anyone has done this or has any info please help.also i have a inline 6 and a 3 speed i want to keep the 3 speed if i can thanks for any help

73Custom · #2 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 09:16 PM

Try the search feature, this has been discussed in the past. The easiest is to just buy a 4x4 or do a frame swap. Swapping the parts onto your 2wd frame can be done, but is lots of work. Keep in mind that the '80+ 4x4s are very different, all IFS, while the '79 and older all have a solid front axle.

Marty

78f150custom · #3 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 10:23 PM

the 80's 4x4's arent all IFS. I dont think any of the 80's ones were. The 4x4 swap is hard to do because the frames on a 4x4 and a 2wd are diferent, one is narrower then the other and part of the 2wd frame would be in the way. Best thing to do is swap the body and all other good parts onto a 4x4 frame.

MarkManz · #4 (**permalink**) 02-17-2004, 11:13 PM

I have an IFS 80 4x4 thats why I am looking for a 78 or 79

Matts72 · #5 (**permalink**) 02-18-2004, 03:23 AM

The 4x4 frame is not narrower. there are a lot of differences though. Steering and brakes are gonna be a pain. its a lot of work, but all the more to you is you wanna do it. We are here to help.