M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

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Jun 26, 2003 | 11:41 PM

lexluthr69

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From: Newport News USA

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

I posted this in the Tranny/Drivetrain forum, but wanted to try here thinking more ppl frequent this one......

I have an '89 2wd mazda 5spd I'm wanting to convert to 4wd. My question is in regards to the extension housing. Is it just a matter of pulling the 2wd ext housing off, and slapping the 4wd housing on, or is there more to the internals of the tranny itself between 2 and 4wd versions? I have a 4wd ext. housing off another '89 f-150 and the BW-1356 transfer case, and am wanting to use those for the gradual conversion.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank ya!!

Luke

Jun 29, 2003 | 01:24 PM

lexluthr69

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From: Newport News USA

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

Anyone know the difference?

Jun 30, 2003 | 11:46 AM

steve83

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From: Memphis, TN

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

The output shaft is different - you have to rebuild the transmission to convert.

Jun 30, 2003 | 11:49 AM

lexluthr69

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From: Newport News USA

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

Awesome!! Thanks Steve. I do plan to rebuild it, cuz the 2nd and 4th gear synchros are just about SHOT. So maybe when I rebuild it or have it rebuilt, I'll have em swap it over.
Thanks again, that's exactly what I needed to hear.

Luke

Jun 30, 2003 | 12:37 PM

GammaDriver

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From: Southeast FLA

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

I'm sure you've heard this, but with all that work I would consider finding a junked ZF to rebuild.

Best,

Jun 30, 2003 | 01:11 PM

lexluthr69

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From: Newport News USA

M5R2 4x2 vs 4x4

I've thought about it, and still may think about it some more when I hit up the junkyard later this week. We'll see what happens and how much they want for a ZF if/when I find one. They're much more expensive would be my only set back, that and the low first gear. I don't do enough towing to warrant that granny gear.