2001 5.0 AWD *Building MEGA Truck*

[mturner2003]

Hello everyone!

I was blessed to receive a 2001 XLT, 5.0L, AWD with 147k miles for FREE from my neighbor.

Long story short, had a misfire code, guy tried to change the spark plugs himself and wound up breaking 4 off in the block. It sat for ~ 2 years until he came over and asked if I wanted it, knowing I'm a 4x4/off-road guy. When I saw the 5.0L, I said... sure, I'll take it, lol.

As of today, was able to extract all the spark plugs and it runs just fine. I'd like to build a Mega out of it. Kind of my specialty, as I've built several in the past. Been a few years and I'm itching to build another. I've had an extra set of 5 tons laying in the back of the shop for almost 6 years now.

So, with all of that said... I want to remove the AWD t-case. Thinking through it, I think I have several options but I wanted to check with some folks that know these transmissions and t-case pairings. I don't know anything about Explorer drivetrains. Feel free to copy my questions below and answer below when replying.

1. Remove the AWD case and install a 4x4 case. I would like to have the extra low range. I will be mating it to a drop box (SCS, chain case, etc) as well. So, the question is will an OEM 4x4 case mate to the adapter on my transmission now? What is the model of case I need? Or, does the adapter have to be changed as well to make the 4x4 case?

2. Convert transmission to 2wd. Then mate to my drop box. Even though I'd like the extra low range with a 4x4 case inline, this option is ultimately more suitable. My assumption is that the output shaft on a 2wd will not be as far back from the engine as a 4x4 output shaft. This is ideal because it allows me to center my drop box so that my driveshafts are roughly the same length. In most cases a 4x4 case output shaft is much further back than a 2wd, which makes me have to put my drop box further back causing a super short rear drive shaft and super long front driveshaft. Make sense, haha? Am I able to convert my current transmission to 2wd?

3. Or, am I better off just purchasing a 2wd transmission? Which model would I need?

I'm asking these questions because I've tried doing some research and some folks were saying that a 2wd transmission was longer than a 4x4. But, they were not thinking about my specific case. Yes, the tailshaft is longer on a 2wd. But, after adding a t-case to a 4x4 transmission, which output shift has a longer distance from the engine block? I want the shortest possible.

Sorry for such a long post. Any support is greatly appreciated!

 

[SenseiJ]

1. Remove the AWD case and install a 4x4 case. I would like to have the extra low range. I will be mating it to a drop box (SCS, chain case, etc) as well. So, the question is will an OEM 4x4 case mate to the adapter on my transmission now? What is the model of case I need? Or, does the adapter have to be changed as well to make the 4x4 case?

2. Convert transmission to 2wd. Then mate to my drop box. Even though I'd like the extra low range with a 4x4 case inline, this option is ultimately more suitable. My assumption is that the output shaft on a 2wd will not be as far back from the engine as a 4x4 output shaft. This is ideal because it allows me to center my drop box so that my driveshafts are roughly the same length. In most cases a 4x4 case output shaft is much further back than a 2wd, which makes me have to put my drop box further back causing a super short rear drive shaft and super long front driveshaft. Make sense, haha? Am I able to convert my current transmission to 2wd?

3. Or, am I better off just purchasing a 2wd transmission? Which model would I need?

been a while but here's my input.

first off, hate you for getting a free one. haha

1. if you want selectible 4x4 sure, very doubtful though as far as i know only selectible 4x4 came in the v6 vehciles which all have different transmissions than the v8. you should have a 4r70w but the f150 of similar gen has a manual transfer case that will bolt up, 4406 i think.
you'll need to deal with different driveshaft lengths but should be a prob for you

2.leave it 4x4

3.NO

 

[410Fortune]

Use the NP205 or BW4406 behind the 4r70w auto in your 5.0 explorer

the 5.0 Explorer from 96-01 uses the 4r70w automatic. Same as a AOD or AODe, same transmission case, same 6 bolt transfer case circle all small block Fords have used since 1964?
30 spline output, 6 bolt t cases will work
The Ford NP205 and BW4406 I have used in these rigs
Many people build doublers from these t cases, a drop box should be no problem, the 5.0 and the 4r70w CAN TAKE IT.

2001 5.0 w 147K for free?????????????????????????????? Lucky! Ill give you $1500 for it right now

 

[mturner2003]

Thank you guys for the input! It took a minute but I knew someone would voice their opinion on the matter eventually.

I'll be looking for a 4406, as I'd like to have the extra gearing.

I appreciate the support!