4x4 vs 2wd

[Aeroheadcww]

I was just wondering, is there a difference in the chassis between the 4x4 and 2wd RAM50? I have an 89 long bed that is in near perfect condition, except the paint, but I really need a 4x4 and I was wondering if the transfer case, axles, etc. could be bolted onto my truck if I could get a 4x4 donor. Can you use parts from a montero as well? Thanks for any help.

[Spicoli]

Frames are quit e different lots of weld on x member mounts and brackets no on the 2wd, Monteros are very similar cept there a schosh bit narrower. If you really want to make a 4x4 out of yourexisting 2wd, bust out the torch and welder and SAS it

[capev86]

i drove my 87 ram 50 short bed, std cab, 2.0 5spd, manual steering, etc through the winter a couple years ago and it did ok enough that i want to keep it the roadster (rwd) configuration for the other 9 months of the year. decent tires make a difference as well as having some weight in the back (my dad's had luck with 2wd suburbans). big issue is the open differential. i have seen 4x4's spinning one tire at each end and people tend to get over confident with them whereas i would save the 4x4 capability just to get out of a bind. i'm thinking a locking diff and softening the rear axle gear (3000gt awd 3.3 rear diff ring/pinion?) would help quell the peg-leg personality traits of 2wd pickups in winter driving.

some of the (available on 4wd only) pieces i want to pick up for my truck eventually:

skid plates - if they will bolt onto a 2wd as i do take the truck off road, live on a dirt road, etc.

87 power ram, raider/montero 15 inch 5 spoke rims that look like the stock 14's on my truck

[camoit]

I would get somthing like an old bronco and drop the body on it. Now that is a mod the board is dying for.