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1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Early Eighties Bullnose Ford Truck

2wd to 4wd conversion

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Old Nov 30, 2005 | 12:16 AM
  #1  
metalZ's Avatar
metalZ
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2wd to 4wd conversion

Hello

Could someone please direct me to some threads regarding conversion of an 81 F250 2 wd to a 4 wd. I have an 81 2 wd that I would like to put front leaf springs and a straight axle under. If this is not possible, I would still like the info on what CAN be done. Also, I want to use as many stock parts as possible.

Thanks
MetalZ
 

Last edited by metalZ; Nov 30, 2005 at 12:32 AM.
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Old Nov 30, 2005 | 11:35 AM
  #2  
Icicle's Avatar
Icicle
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Joined: Mar 2003
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From: Spokane WA
This has been brought up a zillion and one times, thats why you dont have an answer.

In short, its a LOT of work....

for more detail, use the search function
 
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Old Dec 1, 2005 | 11:56 AM
  #3  
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redwood
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From: Pelahatchie, MS
Get a donor out of a junkyard. That is the simplest way to do it, but it's still gonna be a really big project.
 
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Old Dec 1, 2005 | 11:58 AM
  #4  
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redwood
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From: Pelahatchie, MS
Without converting it, you can,,,,

1) Put a suspension or body lift on it.
2) More aggressive, larger tires.
3) Lower gears and a locker in the rear.

If you're wanting to go play in the mud, that'll just about do ya,,,,
 
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Old Dec 1, 2005 | 07:51 PM
  #5  
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8 Lugs
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From: Easthampton, Ma.
I collect 82-86 F250's and F350's. I have had approx 75 plus. Currently have 20 to 25 of them (I'd have to go out back and count)
I have at least half a dozen frames stacked up out back (that's what those little pins are for that drop down from the bottom of the frame are for, factory stacking)
I have looked at pretty much every nook and cranny in the 2wd and 4wd frames. Let me start by saying, there is NO difference between the F250 and F350 frames as long as you don't have DRW (dual rear wheels)
However, there is a LOT of difference between the 2wd and 4wd frames!!!
Re-enforcing of the front frame rails, crossmembers, brackets, etc. The weight is carried differently between a 2wd and a 4wd.
With the knowlege I have garnered from 20 plus years of wrenching these rust buckets, if you want to make your 2wd into a 4wd and are extremely mechanical, go find a rusted out 85 1/2 or newer F350 with the Monobeam (Dana 60) front axle and do a frame swap under your truck.
Other wise, sell your truck and buy a 4wd.
Good luck with your decision.
Steve G.
 
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