2001 Ex Sport 4x2 to 4x4?

[4.0ExplorerSport]

I have a 2001 Sport 4.0. I've read many of the 4x2 to 4x4 conversion conversations, not only around here but many other forums as well, and the concensus that I get is that it is easier/cheaper to sell or trade. I have centimental feelings toward my Ex and like a good challenge however. I have a few questions that may be simple to answer, but I just haven't come across yet.

1) Would a tranny / transfer case from a 2001 sport or sport trac work as a starting point bolt up to the stock motor that I have?

2) I read that the motors are different between the 4x4 and the 4x2 do to a balance shaft or something of that sort. Is this really going to pose a problem if I don't do a full motor swap also?

3) Not really a question but more of point of reference. I plan on doing a SAS later so all of the front suspension etc will be taken care of at a later date also.

Any help or hints would be awesome.

 

[imacker35]

It's a LOT of money to convert 4x2 to a 4x4... I have the same model you do and honestly if you live in the same region I do there's no need for a 4x4 unless you screw up a lot or your vehicle is so heavy but the 'Xploder is so light that you wouldn't need to worry about that.