Converting 87 dodge van to 4wd?

[yammaxx]

I want to convert my 87 b150 to 4wd. I have read and searched for info on how to, and what parts to use to do the conversion. I know this is a more difficult conversion due to the lack of frame, but I just want to see some pics of the front end and undercarrage of a dodge van that has been converted. If any of you guys would be so kind as to send me some pics or some info on the conversion, I would be very greatfull. I have talked to pathfinder, and he is willing to help me with the suspension and some front end parts, but I need some ideas of what the front end and transfer case I should source out. Thanks in advance for any help or ideas.

 

[dsw4x4]

87 dodge van should be easy enough go find a half ton dodge pickup from the eighties. Chances are your van has a 318/360 with a 727 torque flight transmission so make sure your doner truck or junkyard score has the same tranny bolt pattern and then you will have the tranny and t-case taken care of. I am guessing the older dodges had a subframe which makes the front end a perfect canidate for leaf spring front end so using the same 1980s ish dodge truck front axle and springs you will need to fab up some spring hangers and you will be good to go. Tie rods may be a problem I do not know how dodge van are set up. If you can find some one to send you some pictures ask for close ups of the tierod steering box setup. It may be a no brainer but you will not know till you see one. There is a 80s dodge 4x4 van close to my work if the snow ever stops and I get down that way I will try to get some pictures of it because now you have me curious. Hope that helps a little, good luck.
Derek

 

[yammaxx]

87 dodge van should be easy enough go find a half ton dodge pickup from the eighties. Chances are your van has a 318/360 with a 727 torque flight transmission so make sure your doner truck or junkyard score has the same tranny bolt pattern and then you will have the tranny and t-case taken care of. I am guessing the older dodges had a subframe which makes the front end a perfect canidate for leaf spring front end so using the same 1980s ish dodge truck front axle and springs you will need to fab up some spring hangers and you will be good to go. Tie rods may be a problem I do not know how dodge van are set up. If you can find some one to send you some pictures ask for close ups of the tierod steering box setup. It may be a no brainer but you will not know till you see one. There is a 80s dodge 4x4 van close to my work if the snow ever stops and I get down that way I will try to get some pictures of it because now you have me curious. Hope that helps a little, good luck.
Derek

Thanks for the help Derek, any pics would be great.

 

[Adventurerider]

Derek,
Your the man!!

 

[Keyblazer]

Here is some info about and from the '77 that I am about to buy...
This Company did the conversion, and here is some info on how they did it.

http://www.pathfinder-vans.com/html/vancharger_i_d_.html

Here are some pics ...

 

[spencyg]

Boomer has a Pathfinder 4x4 conversion under it. The design is flat out terrible. Period.

The implementation of the transfer case, et' al is ok, but the front suspension sucks. I have a line item on my project list specifically dedicated to tearing out the stock axle locating assembly (the two angled rods meeting in the center of the cross member), and replacing it with a more traditional setup. It is currently a very harsh ride which is subject to some bump steer. The van itself is great, and the springs and trailing arms are plenty robust. Just plan on giving the front end some additional attention...

Spence

 

[tommudd]

I'll try and find some pictures of what some of used to build back in the late 70s early 80s
no close ups but heres what they were
I'll try and dig through some old pictures and find others close up of the front suspension

 

[yammaxx]

I'll try and find some pictures of what some of used to build back in the late 70s early 80s
no close ups but heres what they were
I'll try and dig through some old pictures and find others close up of the front suspension

Thanks for all the pics and ideas guys, keep them coming!

 

[Keyblazer]

Boomer has a Pathfinder 4x4 conversion under it. The design is flat out terrible. Period.

The implementation of the transfer case, et' al is ok, but the front suspension sucks. I have a line item on my project list specifically dedicated to tearing out the stock axle locating assembly (the two angled rods meeting in the center of the cross member), and replacing it with a more traditional setup. It is currently a very harsh ride which is subject to some bump steer. The van itself is great, and the springs and trailing arms are plenty robust. Just plan on giving the front end some additional attention...

Spence

What and how could it be better?

 

[spencyg]

What and how could it be better?

My plan is to lengthen the trailing arms considerably, and then locate the axle with a traditional trac-bar arangement. Nothing fancy, but it will make a huge difference in ride quality. I'm certain I won't get around to it this year, but it is in the relatively near future...

 

[wanderer-rrorc]

My plan is to lengthen the trailing arms considerably, and then locate the axle with a traditional trac-bar arangement. Nothing fancy, but it will make a huge difference in ride quality. I'm certain I won't get around to it this year, but it is in the relatively near future...

the short trackbars (locates the axle side to side in the front)..that pathfinder uses doesnt alow for much flex of the suspension..actually it severly limits it and causes a harsh ride with the 2 points of contact being so short..(just 5in of travel...very short)

they also used some stiffer springs and lousy shocks...

a longer single trackbar will allow it to move up and down and allow the axle to flex and respond better to the road...

 

[cstamm81]

Wow look at those old pics! Must resist urge to lift mine and run the big meats! Look to be running Dodge front axles too, wish mine had all Ma Mopar parts at least.