2wd to 4wd
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New User
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2wd to 4wd
I have a 71 camper special and am in the process of replacing the 360 with a 390. Since I am doing this, thought I'd like to do the 4wd transition also. Just wondering about work,parts,prices involved. Also, if anyone knows what it would cost to have the 2wd to 4wd done by an auto shop(just guesstimates). I will put the engine in myself. Any input appreciated!!
Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 2,351
Likes: 0
From: Benton County, MN
2wd to 4wd
A swap like that done by a good shop (not a hack job) could cost you quite a bit. A long with the expense of the axle, t-case, radius arms, brackets, ect. , if the frame is similar which I am pretty sure it is, the 2wd and 4wd have differen't engine crossmembers. The 4wd has a much larger and some what square or boxed crossmember unlike the 2wd with a basically single stamped piece for a crossmember. Your best bet would probably to find a crashed or rotted out 70's 4x4 that has all of its components on the frame and do a frame swap. Or another option is to go to a bone-yard and get the crossmember cut out and have a good frame or body shop weld it in for you. I just had a guy I know at a body shop section in a new piece of frame on the left side up front on the frame due to a very large stress crack caused from the gear box, and did a nice job, so it can be done. It just takes a lot of time and measuring. But for 4wd it is sometimes worth it. Good luck and keep on truckin.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
Likes: 74
From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
2wd to 4wd
14, as Boss said it aint worth it, find a 4X4 and use your engine, or swap your sheet metal to a 4X4 frame. There is a thread a few pages back addressing the issue.
Check it out.
John
66 F100s
In the still cool hours of the night, you can hear chevys rusting away.
Check it out.
John
66 F100s
In the still cool hours of the night, you can hear chevys rusting away.
