Ive been toying with the idea to convert an F4 to 4 wheel drive, has anyone done such a thing with one of these? I was mainly wondering about the front axle, would it be possible considering it already has leaf springs up front and just finding an axle with the correct spring pad width? I was thinking along the lines of a HD Dana 44 or a Dana 60.

 

Yes, it is possible. The easiest solution is to use a divorced transfer case. Have custom made driveshafts (3) built, and go for it.

I have done this to three different trucks, 2 Fords and an International.

Good luck

 

So I should be able to use the stock front leaf springs?

 

Moving the spring pads would solve that if it was a problem. You'd also have to make sure your drag link worked with the axle's steering arm. And you would need to make sure your divorced transfer case was mounted to ensure the front drive shaft cleared the transmission cross member. The below picture is how Marmon Herrington modified the transmission cross member on the F-3s to keep the transfer case from having to be hang real low to allow clearance for the front shaft.

Another thing to think about is compatibility of drive ratios, and bolt patterns, front and rear. You'd probably be best to find a donor F-250 or F-350 to get both axles, transfer case, linkage and all as a package. Stu

 

Check this out. Lots of good info
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...light=ford+4x4

 

Yep, I'm in the process of doing that now, just having trouble finding the parts I need (small town in the middle of no where). I would suggest a good donor truck, the 73-79 F-series seem to be the ideal years as far as parts go, before things got a little more compleciated but still very strong. I would suggest a donor truck, you may want the steering out of it as well as the brake assembly too. I don't know about you but I don't trust the brakes on my '56, or the steering. The bonus builds aren't my years, but I can't imagine your build being that much different from mine.

 

No one mentioned the outside the frame steering of the older trucks as opposed to the inside steering of the newer trucks. I would think this would be the major hang up.

 

My basic layout is this-
3/4 ton or 1 ton axles, dually for rear
4 or 5 speed manual transmission
NP205 Tcase
Not sure on the engine, either a 351w, 390, or 460 if I get a great deal on one.

 

Good set up, same plan I got.

I'm planning on the 351w, maybe a 390. I had a chance with a 460 but it just eats up way too much gas for a daily driver.

 

I'm doing this with my 52 F-3, I'll be narrowing a HD Dana 44 out of a 77 F-250 to match the stock axle width. The rest of the driveline is all late 70's vintage 460, NP-435, NP205 T-case. I'll also be using the 77 F-250 front springs and hardware. For the rear axle I have a Dana 60 out a 69 F-250.