kf150h

I've got a 2005 f150 XLT. Its already lifted 6'' with 35s on it. Im looking to make it a 4x4. I've read several different things, some saying its easy and some saying its hard. I know it'd be easier to just by a new 4x4 but id like to keep the truck. Any help at all would be great!

redranger04g

Depends on your methodology. You trying to go with a SAS or keep the independent suspension?

2008__XL

It’s been asked 1000 times. You’re far better off selling your truck for a 4wd model.

Itll cost you a lot less to just get a different truck. So many parts would need to be swapped. Even the front frames are different on 2wd vs 4wd.

650NutKase

Buy the 2nd truck... You need:
Axle
T case
Drive shaft
IWE setup for the hubs
PCM re flash
Possibly new front suspension since the geometry is different between 2wd and 4wd
All in all, youre looking at spending about 3-4 grand for decent used parts, assuming you do ALL the labor. Might as well buy the beater/toy and keep this as your nice tow rig

tuflehundon

Only time I have seen it done cheaply was when someone with a 4x4 was rear ended, and the insurance totaled the truck due to frame damage. The guy that did the swap bought the salvaged truck and swapped the parts himself.

With your's not being a classic truck, I'd agree with the others that it would be cheaper to get a different truck in the long run. But if you can do the work, and don't mind the cost, then look for a donor truck, and do the swap

Eric Kleven

Find a a roll-over 4x4, put your body on it.

kf150h

Whatever way is cheaper and easier

redranger04g

SAS is cheaper and easier, but I wouldn't do it to a DD. That's just me

tareed94

You'd have to change most of your lift components because you wouldn't have the proper drop brackets or knuckles. You'd need hubs, vacuum lines, 4x4 switch, transfer case, axle, cv axles, driveshaft, wiring harnesses, and frame mounts from a 4x4 for the front axle (doubtful the 2wd has these). That's just what I can think of right now. If you're set on going 4x4, I'd do a SAS. It'd cost about the same, maybe less though because you could sell your lift components as they wouldn't fit on a straight axle.

Dirttracker18

I'll be very frank here.

If you have to ask then it is way out of your ability. It was difficult back in the old days without any computer controls, now it is very difficult. It is not as simple as bolting on parts and will require pretty extensive fabrication, parts, time and money.

Those that have the ability to do such a job don't need to ask about it.

It's a fun dream but keep it at that and go buy a 4x4 truck and enjoy it.