2x4 to 4x4
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 12,679
Likes: 15
From: BC, Canada
Hi bir rob 4x4 and welcome to FTE 
I believe the frames aren't the same but a wrecking yard would probably be able to tell you for sure.
You'll need lots of parts.....transfer case, transmission will have to be reworked, front diff, switches, vacuum controls, electrical controls, front suspension parts, blocks for the rear springs etc etc.
Unless you have a donor truck it will be a big pain in the neck to do.
Your best bet is probably to trade or sell your truck and get a 4x4.
I believe the frames aren't the same but a wrecking yard would probably be able to tell you for sure.
You'll need lots of parts.....transfer case, transmission will have to be reworked, front diff, switches, vacuum controls, electrical controls, front suspension parts, blocks for the rear springs etc etc.
Unless you have a donor truck it will be a big pain in the neck to do.
Your best bet is probably to trade or sell your truck and get a 4x4.
Last edited by Racerguy; Nov 25, 2003 at 04:20 PM.
New User
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
bir rob 4x4,
I am just starting the process myself. I have a 97 2x4 and this weekend I purchased the front axle assembly, rear end, transmission and transfer case from a rolled 97 4x4. I have already checked out the frame of a 99 4x4- It is radically different from the 2x4 (97,98 and 99 are the same). Dave is right, unless you are like me, I bought my truck new in 96 and want to keep it, and I enjoy the challenge. I can send you pictures of the frame difference or just look in the Haynes repair manual under suspension and steering and there are pictures. Good luck.
If anyone out there has or knows of a 97 to 99 4x4 frame, I am looking to purchase the forward part of it (for the brackets).
I am just starting the process myself. I have a 97 2x4 and this weekend I purchased the front axle assembly, rear end, transmission and transfer case from a rolled 97 4x4. I have already checked out the frame of a 99 4x4- It is radically different from the 2x4 (97,98 and 99 are the same). Dave is right, unless you are like me, I bought my truck new in 96 and want to keep it, and I enjoy the challenge. I can send you pictures of the frame difference or just look in the Haynes repair manual under suspension and steering and there are pictures. Good luck.
If anyone out there has or knows of a 97 to 99 4x4 frame, I am looking to purchase the forward part of it (for the brackets).
