No point in not planning it, for when you are shown to be wrong.
As far as keeping things simple, I have taken that to mind and will concede to a point. To that end, I think I will amend the plan from:
1996 5.0 explorer frame & drivetrain
AWD to Manual T-Case swap
Ranger Cab swap
to:
94-97 4x4 Ford Ranger single cab short bed with 4.0L and possible Manual T-Case swap
And thus have to worry only about suspension mods and rear bed delete.
Front AxleI'm leaning full width Dana 44. Of which type, I have not yet decided.
This rig will be much lighter in weight than t'other'n, so the D44 should be fine.
F250 Dana 44 solid axle on leafs might be the easiest, and would be 8 lug (3/4 ton).
F150 Dana 44 (1/2 ton) on coils/coilovers might be a little more interesting though. And, I don't think it would be all that hard.
, .
I happen to have some of these required items in the garage already (Chevy 44 brake caliper brackets, axle stub shafts, u-joints) Would just need the spindles (just sold a pair a couple months ago, too. lol) brakes, hubs and calipers.
Also - A Dana 50 center section will bolt into a Dana 44 housing.
Dana 44:
1980-1996 1/2 Ton F150 & Bronco
Reverse rotation high pinion
Center section is steel
Ring Gear Diameter: 8.5"
Ring Gear Bolts: (10) 3/8" X 24RH
Cover Bolts: 10
Carrier Breaks: 3.73/3.92
Spline Count: 30
Pinion Support: False
Axle Lugs: 5x5.5
Dana 50:
* Ring gear measures 9.0".
* 30 Spline Axle shafts.
* Gear Ratios: 3.55:1 - 5.38:1
* No carrier breaks
* Pinion shaft diameter: 1.375"
* Pinion shaft splines: 26
* Axle shaft diameter: 1.21"
* Axle spline diameter: 1.31"
* Axle Lugs: 8x6.5
* Center section is steel
Rear AxleRear axle would most likely be a full float full width Dana 60,14 bolt or Sterling.
Optional: Build a shaved 14 bolt setup for links and an artec truss (Which would not be approiate for this project - $$$), that would eventually go into the black truck. Then move the rear Dana 60, currently going into the black truck, onto this vehicle. It'd already be set up for the Ranger leafs that way (plus already locked and disc'd). This option would restrict me to using a , or regearing the rear axle after a swap. .
I just need to learn how to weld. Haha.