4x4 conversion

BradJ927 · May 14, 2004

I have a 1979 Sierra Grande 35 that i am begining to restore but would like to replace the 2wd front end with a dana 60 or some other straight axle. It also has a 292 straight 6 i was thinking of swapping out for a 350. I need advice, suggestions or if this conversion is even feisable. Thanks for any help.

Brad

citydriver · May 15, 2004

The V8 swap is a matter of changing out the motor mounts..

The 4WD conversion gets more complicated and a whole lot more $$$$$$$$

welding,springs,steering linkage,axle ratios,driveshafts (both),transfer case,tranny,

and so on...

Almost might be worth your while and a lot cheaper to find yourself a donor vehicle

and scrap the body parts you dont want...just my opinion

bigdogs · May 15, 2004

I've heard the samething, making a 2WD into a 4WD is basically more expensive than it is worth. A Dana 60 alone will easily cost you $1000+ (bought one for my 80 Blazer years ago when converting it to 1 ton axles). Then you need a new transfer case (NP205's are rock solid), new tranny, suspension, etc.. Easier and cheaper to start off with a factory 4x4 chassis.

There used to be a company that would retrofit fullsize vans (dealer option) making them 4WD and that was like $6000+ to do it.

snoman · May 30, 2004

The easiest way would be to find a doner truck that is wasted to rust. No welding is needed. You need to unbolt 2wd under carriage and then drill out the rivits hold on the front spring mounts on the donor truck. Holes should be in 3500 frame and you can use grade 5 bolts or better instead of rivets to put them on. Rear shakle hole should be present too. You might hav to change engine cross member. A V8 bellhoing will bolt to your 292 and so well donor xfer case. You will need drive shaft off of donor truck too as rear shaft will be different too. Floor pan may or may not have knock out for tranfer case shifter. If not you can cut it out or use donor truck pan as the pan over tranny hump is bolted in. Your will need pitman arm from donor and maybe box too. Okay did I scare you off now? It really is not that bad with a donor truck, it just takes time. Also, a 3/4 ton donor will have a 44F or 44HD if it is pre 78 or 79. After than it is a 10 bolt. THey 44HD is not as strong as a 60 but if you keep tire size reasonable (33's or so) you will not have any problems with it. 60's are a lot harder to find. Did I cover everything for you?