4x4 conversion

[The_Kings_apostle]

Ok look. I know. I already know what you're gonna say; "You should've bought another truck.". But when I got this, I had just gotten an F150 less than six months prior, that was a 4x4, and it got totalled.

In this area, the used cars are almost new prices, I couldn't get a loan for that much money, and the 4x4 used trucks are $20k more than the 2 wheel drive trucks.

This was the cheapest truck that I could fine, that I could finance. Also, there were no 4x4 model 5G Rangers within a 250 miles radius of me.

SO, back on topic.... Is a 4x4 conversion feasible? [Some old "wise guy" is gonna say, "Everything's feasible with enough money! Har har har!"] Let's be realistic, here.

What would I need to change? And how much would it cost, approximately? (This is assuming that I get reliable parts and I get cheap labor)


My truck was almost perfect condition, with a bed liner, bed cover, rain guards, wind deflector, tinted windows, and running boards, for $21,000 but then after taxes, fees, etc , it was like $28k-29k. (And, it was the cheapest truck anywhere around here.)

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[Cmar]

Well I guess someone is going to say it but it will probably cost more than the $20,000 difference to do it. Although they look identical, there are quite a few things that will need to be changed. Maybe if you are capable and could do all the work yourself you could do it for that. If you have to pay someone, I doubt it. and of course it will take time and you will be without it for that time.

 

[airline tech]

Without digging into everything needed.
Off the top of my head of some of the parts that are different.
Transmission / Transfer Case / Rear Driveshaft / Front Differential & Axles & Possibly Rear Differential? / Programming (PCM) and associated modules.
Wiring for the 4WD Circuit which will include the Engine Bay Fuse Box and Switch
So, my opinion it's not cost effective - yes, I am sure it can be done but it will not be a simple all you have to do is upgrade.
There are other items I am sure will be needed but the above is just what comes to mind at the moment.

Something to keep in mind - Resale Value = 2WD as that is what's its titled as.

 

[PltFX4]

Only way to do it (in a realistic, OK, plausible, yet still in a challenging way) is to find a totaled (hopefully due to body damage and not frame... like a roll over) 4x4 and transplant your 2x4 body onto the 4x4. Still a ton of gottchas and details to deal with... plus it is you doing the work for as long as it takes. If this is your daily to go to and from work, welcome to the unemployed.

On the plus side, you'll have a 2x4 chassis and running gear to sell to recover some of the costs.

How critical is 4x4 needed in you daily activities?? Or is it just a preference??

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

Maybe just get a locker and at least have some additional capability.

 

[rang19ca]

It certainly is not cost effective to add 4x4 components to your 2x4 truck. You would need a complete 4x4 truck and still have electrical and programming issues to contend with.

 

[TxOTRRanger]

Duke @DukeCanBuildit, brings up a good point. Even though your truck is 2wd, a locker in the rear would be a big help and it wouldn't cost out the a$$ to get one. Just my two cents.

 

[specialKody]

A rear locker and a good set of tires is the way to go. Bonus if you increase articulation. My old 2006 Colorado WT was 2 wheel drive. After throwing on a good set of tires alone it proved capable off-road (I ran mingus mountain in it back when I lived in AZ).

A rear locker would be a cost effective upgrade. It will give you true 2 wheel drive - as in both rear wheels will always spin regardless of traction. Pair that with a good set of tires and a winch and you should be able to get in and out of many fun trails.

Also always get rock sliders...ask me how I know...

 

[Frenchy]

It is certainly feasible for a price. The question of which price you're willing to pay is the question.

The easiest way to go about it is the radiator cap trick. It's where you bring the vehicle into the bay, open the hood and remove the radiator cap. After that you push the vehicle out of the Bay and bring another one in and put the radiator cap back on.

 

[OGMix376]

I agree with duke on this.. the rear locker will be the way to go.. you’ll spend the cost of the truck plus add on the complete headache of it all.
I suppose if you find a 4x4 donor that’s been totaled you could possibly get the majority of the parts needed.. but a good donor would likely run you about 12-15k (maybe if you’re lucky)
Then it’ll likely be about 80 hours of labor..(high estimate yeah)….
Plus sorting out the programming since these trucks have a small army of robots in them.. which it appears they’re very particular about being told what to do and how to do it.

in short it’s a major venture that’s very costly in both money and time…

also sorry to hear about the F150 situation. That really friggin sucks..

 

[NotBudule2]

I likey the rear locker option , that and maybe some weight over the wheels...

 

[Dereku]

If it wasn’t for the electric stuff, its probably pretty easy. Not sure if the frames are identical between the two. However too many electrical things

 

[Glocker]

I've been out on trails with folks driving locked 4x2 Rangers and their trucks were very capable.

 

[Msfitoy]

Lockers + duallies...

 

[Jason B]

It is certainly feasible for a price. The question of which price you're willing to pay is the question.

The easiest way to go about it is the radiator cap trick. It's where you bring the vehicle into the bay, open the hood and remove the radiator cap. After that you push the vehicle out of the Bay and bring another one in and put the radiator cap back on.

Ah, so l like The Ship of Theseus.

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