Convert van from 2WD to 4WD

Tiny
MI30189
  • MEMBER
  • 1977 FORD E-SERIES VAN
  • 5.8L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
My question is it possible to convert a 2wd to 4wd? I have a new c6 transmission with matching transfer case. I would like to turn my 1977 ford e-150 van into a 4wd like the old pathfinder vans they use to make. What would I need to do this task?
Thank you,
Mark
Tuesday, November 6th, 2018 AT 10:28 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JONNYB1963
  • MECHANIC
  • 252 POSTS
Nice! Off the top of my head you would need the front end off a 1970's vintage F-150 (wheel to wheel). You will need the suspension, and steering components, radius arms and the front propeller shaft (you might have to just have one made custom). Then you would need to add the controls for the transfer case and getting all that up into the cab. So there will be a fair amount of fabrication and welding involved I would think.
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Tuesday, November 6th, 2018 AT 10:46 AM
Tiny
MI30189
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  • 50 POSTS
Hi JonnyB,
Thank you for your input. I already have a 1979 Ford Bronco in great mechanical condition. I will give it a shot and get back to you with progress reports.
Thank you,
Mark
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Tuesday, November 6th, 2018 AT 11:15 AM
Tiny
JONNYB1963
  • MECHANIC
  • 252 POSTS
Okay great. I have a lot of experience doing weird things like that. So if you are not bashful and you are handy with the tools then go for it. Just pay attention to things like ride height so you can make sure that your van is nice and level when you are done. You might have to be pretty crafty to get the shift lever mounted in the cab. I cant remember how big the engine cover was on a 1977. By all means keep me posted.
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Tuesday, November 6th, 2018 AT 11:19 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good information.

Just to add, make sure the gear ratio of the donor front axle is the same as your rear end gears or you will have trouble.

Roy
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Tuesday, November 6th, 2018 AT 2:37 PM
Tiny
JONNYB1963
  • MECHANIC
  • 252 POSTS
Oh yes by all means!
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Wednesday, November 7th, 2018 AT 6:49 AM

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