Ford-Rangers.com Ranger Forum HomeFord-Rangers.com Ranger Forum Home
Home Recent Topics New posts Search search Menu menu Not logged in - Login | Register

Ford-rangers.com is a discussion forum, a Ranger forum for people who have questions about fixing or modifying
their Ford Rangers or people who just admire their Ranger. Please join and enjoy sharing experiences!

Awd vs 4wd on v8 conversions       #: 985
 Moderated by: NoPower, Mike69, MaDMaXX,
New Topic Reply
 Rating:  Rating
 Posted: Fri Jun 22nd, 2018 09:49 pm
PM Quote Reply
1st Post
Eddie Money
Member


Joined: Mon Nov 13th, 2017
Posts: 1587
Name: 
Occupation: 
Interests: Burt gummer life ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 1587
After reading a few threads on explorer v8 swaps for rangers it seems awd is the only option? Assuming a factory look and street legal is the intent, which is mine as well. Is the awd an upgrade or a disappointment? I'd love to hear from some who have done the swap or own one swapped. 

I have a 2007 sport 4x4, 4door, 4.0L SOHC V6 auto and I'm researching ways I can modify and personalize my ranger.



____________________












I know my crazy! Do you?
2007 Sport 4door 4x4 4.0L SOHC V6 Ranger
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Fri Jun 22nd, 2018 10:30 pm
PM Quote Reply
2nd Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
There are plenty of options, there are adapters you can use your ranger transfer case, there are other transfer cases that fit with a little shifting of the motor to the passenger side.

This is a cool thread:

https://ford-rangers.com/forum43/829.html



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Jun 23rd, 2018 09:54 am
PM Quote Reply
3rd Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
BW1356
BW4406
NP205

Those are your basic bolt in options, you don't HAVE to push the engine over to the side for np205 or 4406
Your 4r70w auto trans uses 30 spline output shaft and Ford 6 bolt pattern
There are a few T cases that bolt onto this

4406 Driveshafts are much easier then np205 but MOST times you will have to do some work to the D shafts. NP205 can also require extensive cutting of the 4r70w tailhousing to clear a twin stick shifter setup. Also the cable shifters needed to make this work in a Ranger can add $$$$$. 

Front driveshaft w 4406 we can usually make it bolt in. It all depends on what you can source in your local junk yards. When I converted my 96 explorer from AWD to 4wd many years ago I was able to find the correct front and rear shafts only required a conversion U joint

I don't like the np205 because its only 1.6 low range or something, I do like that it can be twin stick. There are no gearing options for the Ford version of this T case
NP205 works very well in a ranger even as a daily driver but the low range is not low enough for me
You can build a np205/1356 doubler and stuff that in there


Atlas T case is a good option but $$$$$$

Using the Advance Adapter and retaining the Ranger 1354 t case is ok but requires disassembly of your transmission in order to install the output shaft = $$$$$
This is what I have in my Bronco II, the Ranger 1354m t case is a strong strong case even behind the v8

I prefer to use the 4406 manual t case from a 4.6 or 5.4 F150 and bolt it in using driveshafts from same F150 (have rear re tubed to correct length) or find the correct year expedition 4.6 and bolt that rear shaft in. Cut hole in floor for shifter, use f150 linkage, hook up two lights in the dash and you have a 4x4 truck not a weird awd suv

Last edited on Sat Jun 23rd, 2018 09:59 am by 410customs



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Tue Jun 26th, 2018 10:37 am
PM Quote Reply
4th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
NP205 twin stick mated to explorer 4r70w:
Extensive modifications made to the tailhousing











Last edited on Tue Jun 26th, 2018 10:39 am by 410customs



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Wed Jul 18th, 2018 09:31 pm
PM Quote Reply
5th Post
Eddie Money
Member


Joined: Mon Nov 13th, 2017
Posts: 1587
Name: 
Occupation: 
Interests: Burt gummer life ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 1587
Since I started this thread I have found out there are options for rear wheel/4—4.

Anyone stick with AWD after the explorer V8 swap and like it?

Mannnn.....410customs, you really know your fords. No doubt you bleed blue...

Last edited on Wed Jul 18th, 2018 09:33 pm by Eddie Money



____________________












I know my crazy! Do you?
2007 Sport 4door 4x4 4.0L SOHC V6 Ranger
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Wed Jul 18th, 2018 11:47 pm
PM Quote Reply
6th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
I have a friend in CO asked us to convert his 99 B4000 to 5.0 AWD
This truck is used for ice racing and dirt track racing (when there is no ice)
He is/was a believer in the 70/30 split of the awd case
With that said
We have several AWD explorers around here and they get around pretty dang good. They are great in the snow, dirt roads weekend warrior, etc.
However I really see the awd t case as a boat anchor given the options on the table.
The cost of the 4406m conversion here in my shop will pay for itself in the first 1-2 years of daily driving in MPG savings and front tires
Usually when we build a ranger we do the 4406m t case simply because I am not a fan of the AWD and the 4406 is still abundant.  4406 has a nice low range, is way overkill in a ranger (stout) and is a 97% bolt in deal. I usually have to pay to re tube a rear driveshaft simply because I don't want to drive all over trying to find the perfect junk yard part when I can build /modify my own front shaft and conversion U joint in house and pay a local guy $250 to rebuild a custom balanced rear.
The AWD eats up front end parts, tires, mostly it sucks fuel and passing power
The AWD full time case slips with clutches, they wear out and create heat. Heat is wasted energy
V8 explorer/Ranger needs RWD to get reasonable MPG 14-22 can be obtained with stockish 5.0

The Ice racer, he loves his AWD but has been considering a true 50/50 split with a cutting brake instead.....

I am not sold on it. I rolled a 96 explorer on the ice in Colorado because I was not expecting the rear to brake loose due to having 70 % power to the back
I was used to driving that road in my BII with the 50/50 split and the front end pulling.....

There is my rant about the AWD = yuck
The 4406, NP205, 1356m, even my 1354m are better choices IMO
Heck we can even do the electronic versions of any of these, keep your ranger 4x4 dash switch and wire in a stand alone shift motor controller
That opens up the 4406e and 1356e and 1354e (with adapter) shift cases as options..
If I have the budget/time I want to built a 1356/56 or 1356/205 doubler and stuff it in my BII but it may be easier and cheaper in the long run just to spring for an atlas. Nothing crawls like a doubler or an atlas

B4000 5.0L Ice racing truck:
flipped shackle in the rear, pulled bedsides, 33's, torsion twist, I love this truck
I have some more pics Ill post them up

Last edited on Wed Jul 18th, 2018 11:48 pm by 410customs



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Thu Jul 19th, 2018 10:24 pm
PM Quote Reply
7th Post
Eddie Money
Member


Joined: Mon Nov 13th, 2017
Posts: 1587
Name: 
Occupation: 
Interests: Burt gummer life ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 1587
I've had mostly rear wheel vehicles and trucks. I've never cared for the feel of front wheel drives. Mostly because of corner starts. I've driven a couple AWD but not enough to have an opinion.  I know what I like but I'm always curious what others think. Thanks.



____________________












I know my crazy! Do you?
2007 Sport 4door 4x4 4.0L SOHC V6 Ranger
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Fri Jul 20th, 2018 09:22 am
PM Quote Reply
8th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
now you know exactly how I feel about the 5.0L explorer AWD LMFAO!!
I think it is a band aid from Ford. They shoe horned the remaining 5.0 in the explorer to compete with the Durangos and Cherokees. The Gen II explorer was designed around the SOHC engine not the pushrod. So they came up with a few "band aids" just to get them produced IMO. The early exhaust manifolds HAHAHAHAHAHAHA and the AWD t case to me are afterthoughts...
They did us a huge favor that day, packaging the gt40 302 to fit between the frame rails, above the front diff and short enough to stuff in the SOHC engine bay. The best part is they ditched the 5r55 in favor of the f150 trans the wide ratio computer controlled 4r70w and gave us the DIS ignition and GT40 intakes!! Thank you Ford!!
Its almost like Borg Warner just took a 1354 t case that fit a ranger and built a quick AWD unit about the same size. I don't like them very much I'm sure that is clear. Once you remove one for true 4x4 there is no going back



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Fri Oct 5th, 2018 10:31 pm
PM Quote Reply
9th Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
Hey I found a 4406 manual shift but it is from a F150 with a 4.2 V6 is it the same Tcase or no? Says it has 4r70w trans.

Need to know before he sells it.

I also found an electric shift 4406 from a V8 F150, is that the same case and ratios just a motor?



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Fri Oct 5th, 2018 10:53 pm
PM Quote Reply
10th Post
black06xlt
Coal miner


Joined: Sat Nov 25th, 2017
Location: Flushing, Ohio USA
Posts: 1738
Name: 
Occupation: 
Interests: my wife my kids ford rangers ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 1738
I'm pretty sure they are the same. I asked 410customs about it once but I cant find it now



____________________
1995 ranger splash (pieces)
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Oct 6th, 2018 10:35 am
PM Quote Reply
11th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
Yes that is the same transfer case
The 4r70w (v8 trans) uses a 30 spline output shaft and Ford 6 bolt pattern. The 4406 ALWAYS bolts to this, all of them

You can do the 4406e (E shift) for sure
Yes it is the same T case, just with a shift motor.

When E shift 4406 is installed into an explorer you have to use the 2 door explorer (sport) 14 gallon fuel tank to make room for the shift motor.
I am not sure on the ranger I have not done a E shift 4406 into a Ranger yet, only 4 door explorers.

I have heard that the 4406e shift motor can be controlled with the stock v6 4x4 controller and dash switch. I have not done that yet, because we are usually converting V8 trucks from AWD to 4x4. So to convert a AWD 5.0 truck to e shift 4x4 we add:
4wd switch from V6 to dash bezel
Wire in 2002+ Motorolla 4 wheel drive control module
V6 wiring pigtail that goes through the floor and plugs into t case shift motor
The wiring from dash to drivers seat is already in place

If you buy a manual shift 4406 make SURE you get the shifter parts, mounting bracket, bolts, shift lever and shifter rod that attaches to the t case. These parts can be difficult to find BECAUSE they are attached to the tailhousing of the transmission.
So at the wreckers the transmission will go on one shelf while the T cases go on another...the shift linkage usually follows the transmission



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Oct 6th, 2018 11:09 am
PM Quote Reply
12th Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
OK going for the e-shift trying to make a deal with him. Thanks, I'm going to be leaning on you a lot for this swap.


ADDED

I'm going to look out for the fuel tank thing BUT I'm convinced my short cab has a smaller tank than my ex cab already, I filled it from empty and it was about 14 gallons. I'm sure my ex cab takes about 18. Or the gauge is really screwed up on the small one.



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Oct 6th, 2018 11:34 am
PM Quote Reply
13th Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
Hate to hijack this thread further (it is already coming up in google searches for 4406E LOL) but it is unclear..

What were the years of F150's that were equipped with the BW 4406E?



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Oct 6th, 2018 11:42 am
PM Quote Reply
14th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
4406 off the top of my head
96-03 F150 Some F250 ,

Last edited on Sat Oct 6th, 2018 11:55 am by 410customs



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sat Oct 6th, 2018 11:49 am
PM Quote Reply
15th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
Several Rangers over the years have been converted to the 4406e shift, I do not remember any gas tank mods being needed. The information is out there.
Basically with the 4406 E shift, the electronic HVAC control conversion, the message center/ center console and the explorer overhead console you can build yourself a Eddie Bauer or Limited Ranger :)

5.0L 4r70W and 4406 E shift with V6 dash bezel 4x4 switch, add the under seat wiring loom that feeds the T case motor, then wire up the stand alone motorolla 4x4CM box (easy) and your done.

I have LOTS of the motorolla boxes with wiring pigtails, I also have the wiring diagrams for this when you need them = make a thread!!



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Mon Oct 7th, 2019 03:44 pm
PM Quote Reply
16th Post
Mike69

Mustang Nut


Joined: Sun Oct 22nd, 2017
Location: Horsepasture, USA
Posts: 1692
Name: Mike ...
Occupation: Semi-retired ...
Interests: Vintage Mustangs, RBV's, car shows, & woodworking ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 1692
JAMMAN wrote:
 

I'm going to look out for the fuel tank thing BUT I'm convinced my short cab has a smaller tank than my ex cab already, I filled it from empty and it was about 14 gallons. I'm sure my ex cab takes about 18. Or the gauge is really screwed up on the small one.


Jim, I just checked the owners manual for my 2000 Ranger & it states the regular cab short w/b is 16.5 gal, the regular cab long w/b is 20 gal, & the extended cab is 19.5 gal.



____________________
21 Bronco Sport Big Bend (Wife's DD)
05 F150 XLT Reg Cab, 2WD, 5.4L, Auto (My DD)
69 Mustang Coupe 5.0, 5 spd 9" rear(Project)
14 Kawasaki Vulcan (Wife's Toy)
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Mon Oct 7th, 2019 04:24 pm
PM Quote Reply
17th Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
Groovy, kinda means I was right just not 100% accurate on the amounts.

The little one gets better fuel mileage than it should. I didn't write it down but it is the best I have ever got from a ranger even the 2.5's.



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Wed Oct 9th, 2019 09:58 am
PM Quote Reply
18th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
Found a 4406 manual in a 200? something f150 with the 4.2 V6 and 4r70w automatic (I was so hoping it was a 5 speed truck!)
Also found a 4406 electric shift in a 2008 F150 that had a 4.6L

They are all the same t case, just to confirm
4.2 and 4.6L F150 used the 4406 t case up to the end of the 4.6L run (2014?)

Last edited on Wed Oct 9th, 2019 09:59 am by 410customs



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Sun May 10th, 2020 11:32 am
PM Quote Reply
19th Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
Well I'm digging this back up, I had multiple opportunities to grab various 4406 t cases for freaky cheap but didn't really need one.
Now I need one and only found them in the 400 range!

I see multiples from Navigators, I imagine it is a different unit altogether?

Had one I could have bought to my door for less than 150 but nooooo.

To add clarity to the issue, there is the 4406 assumed M and the 4406E which has a motor BUT are there different 4406's in general with fitted cases for different transmissions?

ALSO if I use the boat anchor AWD just to get it going and fit driveshafts to that THEN find a 4406 that fits... is it the same position or will I have to re do the front driveshaft?

ALSO (please see previous 2 questions) do I use that funky universal joint on the AWD case for the front drive shaft? Looks exactly the same as the front Ranger driveshaft I think I have 2 laying around I know at least 1.



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Mon May 11th, 2020 09:31 am
PM Quote Reply
20th Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
if navi has a 4.6 that's a 4406
There is a 4406 manual shift
There is a 4406 electric shift
Many of the electric shifts also have the brown wire which allows torque on demand

The 4406 was used in all 4x4 trucks that came with a 4.6 or the 4.2L V6

Yes you can fit AWD to your conversion just to get by for a while

Your v6 driveshaft is too long for the V8 AWD case, they look similar but are different lengths



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Mon May 11th, 2020 10:59 am
PM Quote Reply
21st Post
JAMMAN

Owns A Torsen


Joined: Mon Sep 18th, 2017
Location: Grove City, Ohio USA
Posts: 6436
Name: Jim ...
Occupation: 5 axis cnc programmer ...
Interests: RBV's ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 6436
For some reason they are listing the 4406 on the navigators to just fit them and some expeditions. But it doesn't matter now as you know I scored a 4406 with the motor off a 99 F150 with less than 100K miles (or so they say) and it has both sides of the connector. Looks decent in the pic.

Just called a couple local JY's and nobody so far has a front shaft from a F150.

Thanks again



____________________
00 XLT 4WD RCSB 3.GO! Jalapeño
01 XLT 2WD RC Steppie 3.0 auto Silver
The future belongs to those who show up.
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

 Posted: Mon May 11th, 2020 11:03 am
PM Quote Reply
22nd Post
410customs

Idahome


Joined: Wed May 2nd, 2018
Location: Panhandle, Idaho USA
Posts: 2165
Name: Jamie ...
Occupation: Elevator Design Worlds Tallest Buildings ...
Interests: Ranger Based Vehicles and OFFROAD ...
Status: 
Offline
Reputation: 
Reputation Points: 2165
try craigslist, I have had really good luck getting driveshafts from private sellers off craigslist!!

Navigator is a Expedition, all exped and navi with a 4.6 will have the e shift 4406 with TOD

You are well prepared going into this conversion



____________________
I build custom RBV, specializing in drivetrain conversions, wiring, suspension and complete custom trucks
Back To Top PM Quote Reply

Current time is 04:18 pm Top  

Ford-Rangers.com Ranger Forum > Tech Section > Drivetrain Tech > Awd vs 4wd on v8 conversions

Users viewing this topic



PHP Version: 8.2.28
Server version: 10.6.22-MariaDB
UltraBB 2.01.01 Copyright © 2008-2025 Jim & Chris
Page processed in 0.0690 seconds (39% database + 61% PHP). 98 queries executed.