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Old Bastard !
Joined: Fri Dec 22nd, 2017
Location: California USA
Posts: 2108
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I drive the main road more than trails now but I do like an occasional trail ride but not heavy rock crawling.
I'm trying to get rid of the IFS Frame because it really doesn't allow for a solid axle and reasonable lift, want to tun 33" tires so I'm thinking about 5" of lift will work.
Also, I was thinking I wanted to make the Ranger heavier and the heavy frame will work to that end. Reason for the heavier Truck is pulling an RV Tariler, not a big one, 24', but I want to be able to tow it and stop it and then it the tractor and trailer, about 4500 lbs.
My overall idea is instead of buying a new truck that I both don't want to spend that kind of money and I am really not happy with what's out there, I would like just my '03 Ranger with a new HD Chassis, 5.)L, 4 speed OD Trans (?), my 31 spline large tube 8.8 for the rear and a D44 I have, TJ Width, for the front.
This will give me more weight, and reliability in strength, so I can get what I want done.
I working on the electronics end of things now, a new audio system with backup camera, Apple Car Play, etc, and a sensing system for alerts around the truck, looking into the auto high beam and auto on off headlights.
Won't be a brand new truck but it will have a lot of new parts in it so I will have to get some of that new vehicle spray... LoL !
I have been reading about the EB Frame, the width is similar and the WB can be ordered, I have a local shop that will do most of the work of installing the body of the Ranger on the Frame with drivetrain. The suspension, I'm up in the air here, stock bronco has some problems but there is four link, with air bags in the rear for weight carrying, and of course heavier leaf spring and Coils as a fall back. The leafs and coils won't do much for the ride so that is way back in the order of things.
I wanted to do most of the stuff myself but I got old without knowing and doing a lot of work like this isn't in the cards and there is something to say about driving it to the shop and coming back in a month and driving it home all converted.
Too bad I don't live closer to you, would be a good project !
Thanks for the info, appreciate your effort.
Ltr
____________________
Ltr,
2003 EDGE, Std Cab, Steppie, E4 Red, 5sp, 4x
5" SuperLift, 33" x 12.50 x 15"
Hurst Shifter
Mod'd Backrack to fit Steppie
Front and Rear Bumpers by Custom 4x4 Fabrication, OK; now Mike's Welding and Fabrication.
Working on more Mods, just need more time, longer days would work !