Extra Weight In Bed For Winter
FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 32,875
Likes: 48
From: Northeast, OK
I don't see why the lift blocks won't work on the 2wd springs even if they are different width than the 4wd springs. That's because the block fit sideways between the legs of the u-bolts, and since the axle diameter is still the same the distance between the u-bolt legs is the same.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,251
Likes: 8
From: North Carolina
I don't see why the lift blocks won't work on the 2wd springs even if they are different width than the 4wd springs. That's because the block fit sideways between the legs of the u-bolts, and since the axle diameter is still the same the distance between the u-bolt legs is the same.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,251
Likes: 8
From: North Carolina
That's why you have to find a pretty and solid 2wd, and convert it to 4wd. Solid and pretty 4wd's are pretty much non-existent here because they were used in the snow, and the salt has ate them up. And if you do find a good one, it's kind-of depressing to watch it go downhill right in front of your eyes every year you use it in the snow and salt. I am trying to keep ahead of it on my 89, and have painted the frame twice, it's had 2 exhaust systems on it and now needs a 3rd,, and it needs front fenders and patches over the rear wheels.
Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 3,441
Likes: 5
From: Muskegon, MI (home)
I converted my 96 F150 to 4wd a couple years ago. It's a bolt in deal, any 1980 through 1996 TTB front axle will bolt right in with no mods. The only other things that could cause some grief would be converting the 2wd trans to accommodate a transfer case, and getting the correct length drive shafts. Overall it's an easy, worthwhile conversion if you live in a state that gets pounded with snow. I have two plywood dity boxes that are probably good for 80-100 lbs plus I have a couple 70 lb sand bags. I built a framework out of 2x4s and 2x6s, it goes from the front wall of the bed to just behind the wheel wells. It keeps everything at the back of the bed. Also am running an aluminum topper, just in the winter months.
Elder User - What???
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 714
Likes: 1
From: Moore, OK
Do you know what gear ratio you need? I might have an extra front end that you could use, depending on where you live. I've ended up with two front ends because it was cheaper than buying new gears at the time and I still haven't been able to find any used ones.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 2,936
Likes: 9
From: Acworth, GA
I just sent you something that Fordzilla sent me. I hope it helps answer some of your questions.
Freshman User
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From: The Catskills, NYS
My truck (1986 F150 XLT Lariat, raised its entire life in Texas) had never seen snow until the last two weeks when I brought it up from Texas to NY.
Last weekend, my truck did something that it has never done in its life. It did a lovely fishtail in the snow as I left my drive.
Quite unexpected, I might add. I kept my foot to the floor (this is no Mustang) and corrected the slide. I drove on with a big smile on my face, knowing that somewhere in its internals my big ol' Texas truck was going WTF just happened to me?
Last weekend, my truck did something that it has never done in its life. It did a lovely fishtail in the snow as I left my drive.
Quite unexpected, I might add. I kept my foot to the floor (this is no Mustang) and corrected the slide. I drove on with a big smile on my face, knowing that somewhere in its internals my big ol' Texas truck was going WTF just happened to me?
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 526
Likes: 1
From: Spokane, WA
For winter weight I made a steel block that is filled with melted tire weights that slides into the receiver hitch. The main block is 2.25" inside, 15" wide and 6" deep with the stinger and block filled up to the end with lead. On top of that is two 3" x 3" x 15" tubes bolted to the lower block. Together it weighs just a hair under 200 lbs. Since it is as far back as it can get, it does wonders as winter weight. I also keeps my bed clean of junk so I can still haul big flat things (wood) when needed. It is small and stores fairly easy and makes a good bumper for the occasional love tap you receive in the winter. I use a floor jack to install and uninstall because it is awkward to hold.
Kenny
Kenny
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