nc4x4

I have a 92 reg cab 4x4 5 speed that has a rusted out frame. I also have a 93 clean frame that was the same truck but it was 2WD. If im thinking right the frames are the same arent they? Also how hard is it to switch out the front axles? Would like 4WD but dont have to have it. The 92 4x4 is IFS. Or should I find a straight axle out of an 80 model instead of using the IFS? Im not a number 1 mechanic by no means, but I can handle the project... other than the axle and I have someone that could switch them out. Just wanting advice before I get too in-depth. I know about switching the trans, transfer case, etc if I tried switching front ends. Just need advice on the frame( making sure they are the same) and the front axle conversion ( if I even go that route.)

Thanks

redneck,welder

Did u get any advice on this? I'm looking to turn my 92 Sr5 2 wheel into a 4 wheel and would like to know if I have to change the chasi and if so what year or years are compatible

nc4x4

Got an answer on another forum and he said to use a straight axle out of an 80 model because the frames are different on the ifs but 80 model frames are the same as early 90 models???????????

250rmike

the 1979-1985 are solid axle trucks not compatable with the 86-95 ifs frames without a lot of work. as for the 2wd to 4wd i dont know what all it would take sorry

85TurboRunner

Don't know if you got any more info on this but yes your cab will bolt directly to the 2wd frame.

As for a 4wd conversion, just cut out all the IFS and do a solid axle.

As far as it being alot of work like posted above, it is but its worth it. Crazy as it sounds some people like doing things that take alot of work though.

250rmike

just do you research before you decide what to do. better off knowing that you cant do a sas just yet than to cut off your front suspension and realize that you dont know what you are doing. anyway good luck

nc4x4

For anyone following up on a topic like this I finally did the swap. I unbolted the cab with 4 bolts, motor mounts, took out driveshaft and tranny, unhooked fuel lines and brake lines, steering column, and anything else that wouldnt come up with the cab. Ran a strap around the inside of the cab with the windows down and lifted the cab and motor with a 4720 John Deere(66hp). Rolled the rusted out 4x4 frame out and the nice slick 2wd frame in. Sat it down and put it back together. Figured it could be done just never have had the time to do it. I put the 2wd tranny back in it for now and going to run it for awhile as I dont have time to do an axle swap. It beat the hell out of junking the truck. Clean cab and bed with no rust what so ever except the front fenders that I replaced. Clean seat, carpet, and no cracked dash. Glad I found a frame. The 4x4 was getting too dangerous to drive. Its a wonder it didnt fly into dust at 50mph

kornhuskerwizard

Follow Gizlers build for a buddy build thread on 84 85. Hes doing ths similar scenario as we speak