4x4 to 4x2
#1
12-06-2011, 04:21 PM
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4x4 to 4x2
a discussion is ongoing in another forum about using the dakota frame under FMJ cars like the volare, aspen, diplomat, etc..
Looks like a lot of work, but while reading about it, it occurs to me that if you want to build a big block 2wd dakota, the 4wd frame is the place to start. There is a lot of open territory between the frame rails once you get rid of the 4wd tranny, the transfer case, the center section of the front axle, etc. The torsion bar suspension is often raised using new "keys", aren't there lowering keys as well?
Looks like a lot of work, but while reading about it, it occurs to me that if you want to build a big block 2wd dakota, the 4wd frame is the place to start. There is a lot of open territory between the frame rails once you get rid of the 4wd tranny, the transfer case, the center section of the front axle, etc. The torsion bar suspension is often raised using new "keys", aren't there lowering keys as well?
#2
12-07-2011, 02:02 AM
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2wd would be a better project platform. 4wd has the differential and the CV axles you would need to eliminate. The front hub needs at least the outer shaft installed to keep the hubs together.
As far as keys if you want to lower a 4wd just crank the stock keys down. More than enough room to get it as low as you want without needing more.
As far as keys if you want to lower a 4wd just crank the stock keys down. More than enough room to get it as low as you want without needing more.
#3
12-07-2011, 08:11 AM
#4
12-07-2011, 10:39 AM
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I know, and agree, just putting it out there for the big block boys. If we can get 400 out of a 318, the 360/5.9 should be enough...
#5
12-07-2011, 10:42 AM
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2wd would be a better project platform. 4wd has the differential and the CV axles you would need to eliminate. The front hub needs at least the outer shaft installed to keep the hubs together.
As far as keys if you want to lower a 4wd just crank the stock keys down. More than enough room to get it as low as you want without needing more.
As far as keys if you want to lower a 4wd just crank the stock keys down. More than enough room to get it as low as you want without needing more.
#6
12-07-2011, 11:49 AM
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LOL 95_318SLT drove without the CV and the wheel completely fell off once he reached the street after his driveway. The Hub needs the outer shaft to hold the hub bearing together.
#7
12-07-2011, 01:26 PM
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how does Jeep do it, is that the reason for the straight pipe in the front of Jeep Cherokee 2wd?
I got out the service manual, as long as the outer shafts are still there, it will work, but a special boot would have to be installed or there will be parts exposed to dirt and such....
I got out the service manual, as long as the outer shafts are still there, it will work, but a special boot would have to be installed or there will be parts exposed to dirt and such....
Last edited by bill55az; 12-07-2011 at 05:30 PM.
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#8
12-07-2011, 09:07 PM
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