96 5.0 awd

[James333781]

The previous owner cut the cv's out of the front and left the stubs in the wheel hubs. Upon dropping the front dif and opening it up I found that years of being driven while open had distroied it. The ratio is 4.11 . I was thinking about a strait axel conversion any ideas?

 

[RomeovilleIL]

The front differential is surprisingly easy to replace. Put a jack under it, remove a few bolts, lower, and slide it out. New one goes in just as easy. Not sure where you are located, but most yards have lots of 4x4 explorers and rangers. Front differential will likely be around $200. They may throw in both used CV axles for another $50, but you can pick new ones for $60 each at any parts house. Just make sure you have correct gear ratio (check inside door sticker).

If you want to go the solid axle route, there are lots of great write-ups. Figure on some metal fabrication, new steering setup, and around $1500 in parts with a used axle.

If you are going SAS, would also recommend ditching the AWD and getting a manual 4x4 so you can have true low range.