Simple Answers to Complex Questions
Do you have any info on converting a '99 F-250 regular-cab two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive?
Ryan Graham
Luther, OK
Yes. Don't.
It's like this: In 2006, we published a two-part series in which we converted a two-wheel-drive '92 Chevy truck to four-wheel drive. (You can find it online at fourwheeler.com.) What we found was that we'd have come out ahead in terms of time and money if we'd simply sold the truck and bought a four-wheel-drive model instead. The only way it will make economic sense to you would be if you already have a compatible donor truck (i.e., wrecked, from a junkyard, that you bought for song) with all the parts you need to complete the conversion (transfer case, front drive assembly, brakes, steering, etc.) intact and mechanically sound. So, while we don't really want to discourage you, it's been our experience that a project such as yours almost always ends up being more trouble-and costing more money-than it's worth. Just so you know.
Needs a 4x4 Shop in Las Cruces
I have a '97 Dodge B2500HD 4x4 with the Cummins diesel option and it has done excellent duty for the last 293,000 miles. Unfortunately, it now has wobbly steering and "groans" when you turn the steering wheel. I would like to find a local shop here around Las Cruces, New Mexico, to totally rebuild/replace the front driving components and replace all factory bushings with new. I have been unable to find a shop yet that is willing to do the work. Would you be able to recommend a shop that I could talk to for this rebuild of my truck? The only engine related issues I have is the front and rear main seals leak, probably due to the rough four-wheeling that I do going up to my silver mines or going hunting on unimproved roads. If I can get my driving components repaired and the seals fixed on the engine, I think this truck will easily make the 1,000,000-mile mark.
John Tryon
Las Cruces, NM
We don't know any off-road shops in the Las Cruces, but there is a 4-Wheel Parts shop down in El Paso-which, if memory serves, is less than an hour's drive for you. You might give them a call. If they can't help you, they might know someone who can. Or, perhaps one of our readers can.
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