Wanna know the difference in 96-97 VS 98+ AWD tcases and drive shafts?

[section525]

Ford changed the AWD transfer case in 1998 making a few major differences. One being the lack of VSS (vehicle speed sensor) on the 98+ units. Another change was the way the front drive shaft mounted to the transfer case.

So, if you want to add a 96 or 97 transfer case on your 98+ Explorer, you'll need to have the front drive shaft from a 96 or 97 along with the VSS (just to plug the hole since your VSS is located in the rear axle with the RABS).

You can use a newer transfer case in your 96 or 97 Explorer if you swap the housing from your current broke down busted up transfer case. Which is easier said than done but can be done (ask Heath).

Here are some photos for your enjoyment.

1998+ is in the rear.. 1996-97 is in front.

 

[section525]

You can easily see in the above pic the difference in the mounts. The rear is the exact same so nothing to worry about over there.

And if you get a front drive shaft from a '96, make sure you get the bolts to mount it with!


Here is a picture of the drive shafts.

98+ in rear. 96-97 in front.

 

[V8BoatBuilder]

Section, what project are you working on here?

 

[section525]

I had to swap an older 4404 transfer case into my ride because the '99 4404 doesnt have a VSS port on it. So for the last few months I've had no speedo.