Staight axle for third generation?

[theONLYbigHEAD]

I have a 2002 XLT that I wanna straight axle. Anyone know if a XJ Jeep front axle would fit or work with how much work its gonna involve? Or how about any of the TJ Jeep axles. Or even a first gen explorer or bronco 2. Any other suggestions would be awsome thanks!

 

[FROADER]

What are you going to do to the rear?

 

[theONLYbigHEAD]

Just some type of matching rear, if the rear from the jeep will work i was gonna go the same route for the rear!

 

[IZwack]

Here do this, find a running Bronco or Jeep or whatever you want to get the axles out of and park your Explorer next to it. Then slide under both of them to check out what needs to be done -- it'll become obvious as you notice the differences.

 

[Nytroman]

IMO its not worth anywhere near the hassle of doing that swap, thats gonna take some serious torching, welding, measuring and luck!

 

[Willard]

That would be awesome. I think it would be so worth it. You would be the first one with a straight axle'd 3rd gen. And it would be so much more capable than is near possible with the stock suspension.

 

[410Fortune]

easier to put a Gen III body onto an older truck
Your truck is IFS and IRS, you are seriously better off starting with a completely different frame and keep the Gen III body

Or you can solid axle your truck front and rear, but its gonna cost more then the truck and require a complete re-work of everything underneath

 

[JTX]

Welcome to the site!

 

[theONLYbigHEAD]

Thanks everyone, ill keep my options open, i have found a dana 44 front and rear out of a XJ style jeep, that i have been thinking about. I have been talking with some of the local Jeep guys trying to see what is possible. I thought i would consult some true explorer guys also (i.e. "Serious Explorations"). Not sure what will happen yet and how much im getting myself into. But hey anything is possible with time, patience, and some fabrication. Thanks for your guys input.

 

[Sams01XplrSprt]

welcome

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I've moved your thread to the 02-05 modified section for you.