Ranger Front End = Explorer Front End?

[AMMO_HOOAH]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought the front end of the 98+ rangers was pretty much the same as the Xs. I'm not 100% on this, but don't the rangers have the same hub setup that we do, and if so then won't this work on our rigs? Like I said correct me if I'm wrong, but I'd love some manual hubs!

http://www.tellico4x4.com/product_info.php/products_id/26509

 

[AMMO_HOOAH]

Any opinions?

 

[hunterdan]

I think they would be for the TTB front suspensions. They mention the explorer from 90-97. They are different mounts so I would be curious as to if they are for the IFS or not. May be worthwhile emailing them and finding out. I have heard of them before and they do make some good hubs. Here is the link

Dan

 

[gijoecam]

In a word, NO. The Rangers from 97-00 used a pulse-vacuum hub lock on the front axle, and a 13-54 transfer case. This disconnected the drivetrain similar to the way the first-gen Explorers did. (i.e. the front axle stops moving) The Explorers since 97 have all used a live front end. 95 and 96 used a live front end with a center-axle disconnect. In either case, the 2nd gens all had hubs solidly splined to the front halfshafts and axles.

Now, that being said, if you really wanted manually locking hubs on a second gen, you could make it happen. 95 and 96 owners would need to swap out the front drive axle for a 97-01 axle, then replace the hubs and possibly the halfshafts with those from a Ranger. Then, and only then, could you swap-out the autos for the manuals.

That being said, once that was done, you'd still be stuck with the 44-05 transfer case, which tends to spin the front driveshaft when disengaged anyways, so what would you really accomplish? You're still driving most of the front drivetrain anyways.

-Joe

 

[AMMO_HOOAH]

Good info, that's what I figured, but when I saw the listing for the explorer I had to ask. When you refer to the center axle disco you're refering to the 4X4 V6 not the AWD V8 correct? I am planning on swapping the AWD (4404) out for either the 4406 (already proven to work fully) or the 4407 if it'll work. In either case I'll have a fully disengageable front end. Are the manual hub options the same for the AWD that you spoke of, and is it as easy as it sounds or a major pain? Thanks for the help.

 

[gijoecam]

Good info, that's what I figured, but when I saw the listing for the explorer I had to ask. When you refer to the center axle disco you're refering to the 4X4 V6 not the AWD V8 correct? I am planning on swapping the AWD (4404) out for either the 4406 (already proven to work fully) or the 4407 if it'll work. In either case I'll have a fully disengageable front end. Are the manual hub options the same for the AWD that you spoke of, and is it as easy as it sounds or a major pain? Thanks for the help.

AACK!! I missed the V-8 AWD in your sig....

The AWD and V-8 use a live front axle.

I'm not familiar with the 44-07.... selectable? I just skimmed your other post on the issue, but wasn't really paying attention to any of it.

Also, I may be mistaken about the hub setup.... I think they didn't go to the PVH hubs until '01 or '02. IIRC, the 97-00 Rangers used the *old* automatic hubs like the first-gen Explorers. I don't remember when the Ranger ditched the TTB and went to the SLA front ends, or whether or not the auto hubs crossed over before or after the suspension change.... it's all a little fuzzy at the moment.

So, yes, if you swapped out a selectable transfer case, and could somehow manage to adapt the Ranger front drivetrain components, then yes, in theory, you would have a selectable front end.

Now, that being said, line up a v-8 with low range, and you'll start eating CV joints on the front end for lunch! They won't hold up to the V-6, let alone a V-8 with tall tires and low gears! Start looking at front axle upgrades.

-Joe