Will a 2wd engine work ok in a 4x4?

[joey_hv]

I know that the 4x4 have an extra timing chain but the 2x2 engines seem to be externally identical.
If I install a 2wd engine in my 98 explorer will it be okay? How crucial is that extra timing chain?

 

[cybergasm]

Guess your talking about the SOHC motor?

 

[heathmo]

It's a balancing shaft for the 4x4 engine, don't know how much difference it would make, but I would imagine it's best to get a 4x4 engine for the 4x4 truck.