Fordtrucktexan

Double check this if you can... I know the frames on the 2wd's are different from the 4x4's on 97-03's

FX4_Envy

I believe the difference on the Rangers is just one bracket that the pinion side of the differential bolts to. Some guys would either custom make one or just get one off a wrecked 4wd and install it. I do know Ford and that they never keep anything consistent.

rubbinsracin

also you will need to make sure you get all the 4wd computer stuff. and the switch that goes inside the cab. Best bet is to find a wrecked 4wd and get everything you need......otherwise i would just trade it in to get a 4wd. you will need all of the suspension too because they are set up different. i love to do things by myself too....but man this is some really serious stuff.....

Foulplay

Bad idea. It's gonna cost you between 10k - 15k dollars to have some one do it for you. I don't honestly believe you're ready to tackle something like this by yourself if you have to get on a forum and ask where to even start. Your best bet is to trade your truck in on a 4x4. That may not be what you want to hear and I'm sorry if I have offended you but sometimes the truth hurts. Just being honest.

FX4_Envy

Here is a few how to's on the Ranger's to compare to.
http://www.ranger-forums.com/f82/04-...2wd-4wd-44350/
http://www.ranger-forums.com/f82/03-...ersion-111965/

I realize they're not the same but you aren't getting a lot of real suggestions other than sell your truck. Which maybe the best idea but sometimes its hard to part with a certain vehicle.

You might just want to find a 4wd guy to compare truck frames with. I would just look at doing an IFS 4wd swap rather than a SAS. It'll be much cheaper and wouldn't have to worry about the steering linkage and cost associated with it. Anything has to be better than 2wd, plus if its as simple as the Ranger's its more or less a bolt on setup.
Definitely go Manual T-case don't even think about doing the electric case.

dhonnoll

I did this on a 93. The transmission/transfer case is always simple enough. May have to knock a hole for the shifter, please tell me you want to be a real man and have 2 floor shifters. Make sure you get the cross member that the transmission/transfercase mount to. As for front end. I am not sure if that is doable on this body style. It may very well be. You will need the whole front end, control arms, spindle/hub assemblies, axle, axle shafts, front drive shaft and your rear driveshaft WILL now have to be shorter so you will need to get the appropriate one to your transmission/transfercase, bed, cab lenghth combo or have yours shortened. LOTs and LOTS of work and parts. Best bet is a donor vehicle. When I did it, 92-96's were a dime a dozen in bone yards and broncos too. Ford no longer makes the Bronco and whatever SUV now replaces it (if there is such an animal I doubt it) is optional 2wd or 4wd.

CobraJeff27

Someone commented on not knowing where the steering box is on these trucks... The answer is nowhere. 04 was the first year the f150 got a rack and pinion.

buster096

Yeah the op's truck is long gone and so is his other 4x4 f150 that he bought to replace it. He now has new '15 f150...

dhonnoll

Can anyone send pics that compare 2wd frame on front end to 4wd frame on front end. Preferrably at the the control arms. Are there any differences other than the control arms themselves? Is this a doable bolt on only conversion. I am curious now.

dhonnoll

I did this on a 93. It was just strictly bolt on. As for the rear drive shaft yes it will be shorter. I am thinking about doing this conversion again on my 2007. Why? If I trade it I have to downgrade. I don't want an autotragic trashmission. I'd rather deal with a non numbers matching transmission than an autotragic. Unfortunately the last year for that was 2003. Haven't figured out why. It may be exhaust, gas tankg and would be transfercase placement. It may be due to no real CAN BUS network on the 5 speed to know what gear or whether or not it is in 4wd to turn on the hub actuator not sure. An Expedition or F-150 front end SHOULD bolt on. 2 brackets for the diff housing MAY have to be welded to the frame not sure. As for the transfer case not sure what route to take as a cross member won't be available and my gas tank may be in the way of routing exhaust. This is a further down the road idea though. I love the truck as is, minus that feature. Manual Windows, Manual Mirrors, Manual door locks, manual transmission, cruise, AC, PS, Anti lock, and backup cam with Android 4.2.2 7" GPS (aftermarket upgrade). Limited Slip (also upgraded myself).