Want to install a 87 4x4 rear end into a 88 4x2, will it fit and if not what are the differences?

 

it should. but the 2wd is oversprung, the 4wd is undersprung

 

Although the share the same ratio availability usually the 4x4 has different gears. Not a huge concern since you dont have a front to match it to, just something to be aware of.

 

So will the 4x2 leaf springs mount up to the 4x4 axle?

 

You will need spring perches to mount the axle correctly. Like These http://www.summitracing.com/parts/DCC-4120074/

Make sure you get your pinion angle correct. And once bolted down get the perch welded on so It don't shift on you.

 

the front of a 4x4 will fit the rear of a 4x2 (thats where they got them, check any 80's dodge car) look for a 3.90 ratio for power. it's not a simple back to solid axle swap, but change the inner gears, keep your axles and your laughing.
believe me it is a lot simpler than what your looking at.

 

????

Front axles aren't interchangable with rear axles! One of two front possibilites... either it is a "short" axle for IFS so it won't be wide enough, or it has steering knuckles on it so it won't work... not to mention the pumpkins are offset on the front. Also, I believe front axles have reverse cut gears, so the gears aren't interchangeable either. I think the only interchangable parts are the differential carriers.

 

if you take the carrier out of the front of a 4x4 and put it in the rear of a 2x4 it works. the splines are the same on the front axles and the back axles. just haul it out of the front, put it in the back, adjust it up and your set. had to do a lot of research on this on because i blew my front diff and i found out i could get a carrier from most anyiing a dodge makes. now im not talking about an entire axle swap, i mean just a carrier swap.

 

That may be, but you still have to use your original ring gear, cause front axle gears are reverse cut, and even if they weren't, gears are manufactured in pairs, so you can't use a different ring gear on the original pinion. Also, when you replace a ring gear, you have to replace the bolts that go with it, at which point you may as well get a complete overhaul kit, and not many people have the tools and knowledge to set up a R&P.

Then there is the ABS issue. You'd be hard pressed to find a front axle carrier that is machined to accept an ABS tone ring from that era.

 

Ok, nevermind... that reverse cut gearing is not something chrysler ever did on their axles... thats a dana/ford thing. But the gears still can't be mixed between pairs, even if they are the same ratio.