Swap 2WD to 4WD

Chevy Forum Chevy Classifieds Photo Gallery Chevrolet News Search Contact CF Sponsors
Member List Forum FAQ Chevy Timeslips Chevy Recalls TSBs Calendars Register Login

Swap 2WD to 4WD

Printable Version

Chevrolet Forums >> Brand Review >> Suspension >> Swap 2WD to 4WD

Page: [1]

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

Swap 2WD to 4WD - 10/13/2007 6:20:20 AM

clueless1

Posts: 1
Joined: 10/13/2007
Status: offline

I own a clean '91 GMC 1500 p/u which is 2WD with a 305. The truck is very solid. I also own an '88 Chevy 2500 4x4 p/u with a 350, which is rusted pretty badly. I'd like to swap the motor, trans and suspension from the '88 to the '91. Thus making the 2WD a 4x4. What problems do you think I may encounter? I am aware of the tortion bar issue with the front end. Not a problem. Will the 305 computer support the 350 throtle body? Both trucks run a weak 700r4 trans (ugh) Both are brand new rebuilds. (A commonn task with a 700R4). Any input would be appreciated. Thanks, clueless1

< Message edited by clueless1 -- 10/13/2007 6:25:13 AM >

Post #: 1

RE: Swap 2WD to 4WD - 10/17/2007 11:21:34 PM

96dieselguy

Posts: 26
Joined: 4/5/2007
Status: offline

just switch the bodys... like the box's, front clip, doors from the 1500 to the 2500. thats alot easier than changing the suspension, then you

(in reply to clueless1)

Post #: 2

RE: Swap 2WD to 4WD - 12/20/2007 9:06:35 AM

Gryphon

Posts: 38
Joined: 12/19/2007
Status: offline

I second the body swap.

Swapping 4wd parts onto a 2wd chassis is a pain at best, especially if the suspension components are different as yours are, AND you are putting 3/4 ton IFS onto a 1/2 ton chassis.

The bodies wil swap easier, and you may only need to swap the sheetmetal, not the whole structure, besides, you will stil have the heavier 3/4 ton frame as well.

Otherwise, you will need to remove all of the 1/2 ton brackets and suspension parts from the front of your project. The crossmember for your transfercase will need to be adapted to your 1/2 ton, or a new one sourced. All the chassis/suspension brackets will need to be transferred from the front of your 3/4 ton to the 1/2 ton. The rear axle may be easier to swap, just measure your shock and spring locations to be sure. You will need to swap that too to keep the wheels the same size. Speed sensors, speedometer cable, transmission linkage, brake master cyl and porp valve, possably brake lines, transfer case linkage will al need to be adapted or fabbed up. The cab floor may need modification for the t'case.

It is do-able, folks have done it, but on the newer, IFS trucks, it's easier to sell the 2wd and buy a 4x4. It's not as simple as it used to be when they all had similar componets bolted into the same frame holes. Brackets are welded and rivited on in different locations now.

_____________________________

Rob
'99 Suburban 1500, 5.7 Vortec stock...for now.
'86 CJ7 daily driver, some mods, usualy dirty.

(in reply to 96dieselguy)

Post #: 3

RE: Swap 2WD to 4WD - 12/25/2007 10:11:46 PM

jamesKC

Posts: 22
Joined: 11/15/2007
Status: offline

that is a pretty good task, but if u have the abilaties it should be a pretty simple job. It is just the matter of a few measurments, a little welding, getting everything in line.   The body panels will fitt from one to another just the grill shells are a little diff. but they will work with some hardware.
                                                   hope that helps, james
                                                   comptonspowdercoating@gmail.com

(in reply to Gryphon)

Post #: 4