4x4 conversion

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Dec 31, 2007 | 09:29 PM

evilbeast

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4x4 conversion

I am toying with the idea of converting my 87 f-250 to 4wd, and , there is only one thing that I am needing to know, is the front axle on these year/body style trucks a ttb, or solid axle, I have heard and seen differing opinions and examples. and if it isnt, where can i find a suitable cadidate for a solid axle swap or install? thanks all info is appreciated.

Dec 31, 2007 | 10:27 PM

teds74ford

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I would recommend a search as this has been covered many, many times.

Still, to answer, they are ttb. An F350 dana 60 is more or less a bolt in, though.

Jan 1, 2008 | 12:21 AM

crazyredneckanyhow

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Im assuming your truck has coils in the front? The 250/350 4wds had leafs in the front. Im not sure about how the frames vary fron coil to leaf in those years. Best bet for a solid axle is go with a 78-79 f-150 front axle with coils and swap in 8 lug outers. Then you can just use the factory 78/9 front radius arms.

Jan 3, 2008 | 07:09 PM

evilbeast

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Quote:

Originally Posted by crazyredneckanyhow

Best bet for a solid axle is go with a 78-79 f-150 front axle with coils and swap in 8 lug outers. Then you can just use the factory 78/9 front radius arms.

but wouldnt the front end on the f-150s be a smaller ring and pinion, as well as have smaller axle shafts? id probably want to stick with the 250 or 350 front ends to keep the parts swapping to a minimum. the front end on mine does have coils, and swapping to leafs is definitely in the equation to make this right, as well as easier to get lift kits for it. so i am assuming that from the post prior to yours that getting all of the parts from a 350 would be the way to go for a solid axle if i would like to stick with the heavier axles?

Jan 3, 2008 | 07:22 PM

crazyredneckanyhow

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Ok heres the deal as far as front end interchange. Both the 150s and 250s shared the Dana 44 front. The only difference is from the spindle out. Ring and pinion and the axles are the same. The only time this changes is if you have a Dana 60. I know this. Ive swapped outers before. The 8 lug spindle will bolt up directly to you 5 lug spindle. No fab work required. Coils in the front will give you more flex and a better ride. The front doesnt really do anything as far as carrying weight. As far as options you have more with coils then you do with leafs. You can get up to 12" lift coils and all the leafs ive saw only goes up to 6" unless you have something custom built. You shoudl run at least a 6" either way so the differential will clear the front crossmember on your frame.