I have a 2018 F150. I don't have any need to add 4WD to my truck. But I am curious if it is if at all possible. I've done swaps on older trucks. But those were built before ECUs
​Is it possible to do a swap on a modern truck? And what would the price be comparatively?

 

Short answer: no. It’s never been a feasible cost affective way of getting 4wd. It would be even harder and more complicated on newer trucks. Selling your truck and buying one that has 4wd would be the only option that makes any sense.

 

I dont see why not as long as gear ratio same how would anything change ecu doesn't know what's up there it's just a front end .go ahead put a d60 straight axle and some coil overs.

 

Are the front diff mounts there on the 2wd trucks? I know on prior models and on the Ranger they were so it was a pretty straightforward swap on those models.

Its one of those jobs which is likely certainly possible however it wouldn't be cost effective at all compared to buying a 4x4 truck and modding it to taste.

 

Funny because I've always wondered the opposite. I don't need 4wd. I've got a 2wd now and so glad for it.

 

Frames are also different. You can’t just bolt on a diff up front.

 

He's right, I've looked into it through Ford Parts websites and 2010 Ford F150 Service Manuals for my truck and the frames are different in the 2010 F150 model. The 2010 F150 145" WB takes Ford PN: EL3Z-5005-N; while the 2010 F150 145" WB takes Ford PN: EL3Z-5005-G. That being said, I don't have both frames in front of me to say definitively what the exact differences in these frames are and/or would it make this swap implausible.

It seems counterintuitive that Ford would produce an entirely different frame for 2WD vs 4WD F150s; given, all the engineering, jig and component development, and logistics needed for separate frames. But that seems to be the case ... and I'm pissed. Hopes and dreams right out the window here!!!

BTW, this holds true for the 2009-2023 F150s. WTH

 

Anything is possible with enough time and money.

 

When I don't need 4wd I simply turn this selector to 2wd.

 

It’s not at all. Automakers need all the CAFE brownie points they can get. Putting everything on a heavier frame when not necessary hurts them in the pocketbook.

4WD buyers are paying for that, anyway.