Converting to 4wd which axle

[Hawkrod]

I disagree, only the outer rails are similar but none of the internal parts are the same. It isn't just the crossmember that is different, it is also all of the front rail boxing that is completely different and you need to remove it from the old frame and fab it up or find a donor to remove it from. If you had a front section from a 4X4 frame you could switch it all but it isn't just a case of bolting in a crossmember and calling it good. A memeber documented this here years ago: http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... &sk=t&sd=a. He did it but it was far from a simple weekend task. Hawkrod

I'm not following you here.

I stated the frame rails are nearly identical which helps since you end up cutting all the stuff off the frame rails to install a 5.9 Cummins.

I've also documented the process on this site with a 78 F-350 2wd crew to leaf spring 4x4 I did in 2007.

Maybe I am not doing a good job of explaining it. Only The outer rails are similar but the inner stuff is completely different and you can't simply bolt the 4X4 stuff on. You have to remove all the old stuff which is a great deal of work due to all the welding and rivets and then you have to have a donor frame or fabricate all the new parts including spring mounts, steering box mount, frame boxing and crossmembers. I didn't mean to imply it could not be done but it isn't a simple bolt in swap or a weekend project to turn a stock 2WD frame into a stock 4X4 frame. It is easier to customize all your own mounts and hardware if you building a custom rather than trying to convert to all stock mounts etc... Hawkrod.

[Zukinut]

Yesterday I purchased rear shackle hangers and a front 4wd crossmember. I got a good deal so even If i dont use them, i wont be hurting.

I plan to make my own steering box mount, and engine crossmembers when I do the cummins swap. Im looking forward to this swap. I know it isnt gonna be an easy process but im sure it will be worth it in the end.

As for cutting out the crossmember, thats why i bought a plamsa cutter, several grinders, etc. Its gonna suck but its gonna be worth it i believe.

Thanks again.

Will