Well i have a 1990 toyota pickup reg cab, with a 22r 4speed, manual steering, so this is what i think i will need, A solid front axle, front driveline, rear driveline, transmission t case, now i would want to do a powersteering conversion and need to know what i would need for that? and was wondering if i need a 4x4 oil pan? will i need a rear axle? and should i do a coil over suspension or just leafs?

 

It would be SO much easier to just sell the 2WD and find a good 4WD.

 

thanks that was what i was thinking haha.

 

I dont know, if you wanted an extreme rock crawler, you would replace most of the factory stuff with upgraded stuff anyway. You would definately do a sfa, and probably do stuff to the transfer case and tranny, with geaing and such. If you just want a factory quality 4x4 though, just go buy one. You can probably steal a 4runner right now. I have seen several 98's for $4500

 

You will need to change the oil sump and pan. I believe there are some differences in the heater hose assembly

 

I'm with getting a new vehicle.

Apart from some nostalgic value or just a challenge, unless you have the time, motivation, tools, and most importantly $$$$, then it's going to be one hell of a project.

I've seen too many people start a project like this get discouraged along the way and end up tearing the truck apart, then selling it for a third of what it's worth.

If you're serious about it, at least get yourself a cheap 4x4 for reference and something that you can drive while you're working on the project, it's hard to know your friends are getting muddy while you're turning a wrench.

 

I agree.

but I also agree that if you are making it a full-out crawling machine, it really doesn't matter what the base vehicle is.

 

X3!

Unless you are wanting a long labor intensive and expensive project, just buy a 4x4. You could build it up while daily driving the 4x2.

 

ill trade you a 85 4x4 with a bad motor and a grand for yours haha

 

Depending on how you want to build it, a 2wd makes a great start. The only difference between a full out build on a 85- or 86+ 4x4 and a 2wd truck is sourcing the transmission/t-case, cross member, driveshaft core, and rear axle swap. Pirate had some info on the 2wd frames noting they retained the 85- frame hump which is more SAS friendly than the 86+ 'flat' front frame section.

Suspension and steering is all redone anyhow, so it really doesn't matter what you start with. (Other than the 4wd front fenders and grill look better)

If you're looking for a milder build (one in which you'll retain some of the factory setup), it's easier/cheaper to start with a 4wd.