So i'm picking up a 90 4x4 Ranger w/ the 2.3L and auto tranny for $800. Only 60k on the engine. This is going to be my weekend warrior, mostly on level b's, private land, and deep stuff down by the river. In Iowa we don't have much to play around on. I'm gonna sas it w/ a dana 44, and leaf springs. Plan on getting 5in leafs, but my question is (might be a dumb one), can I use rear leaf springs on the front axle? Also, I'm planning on welding the spring brackets/hanger, but bolting it on to the frame. The reason being is I'm welding at school w/ a miller 220v Mig, but at home all I have is a 125v chinese pos lol. For the front hanger, I plan on using a piece of 2x4 for the connecter between the frame, then torch a piece of square tube that is as wide as the frame in half. Weld it to the top (it'll look like l_l kinda). This will bolt to the hanger to the frame. Then on the bottom do the same as above to mount the springs to. Then weld supporting gussets and what not. My question is, what gauge steel should this all be made out of? Also for the steering box, I'll pick up a yota one and make the linkages from various parts. Should be picking up the truck tomorrow or Tuesday.

 

For most of the support u should use 1/4 steel, at the very least use 3/8 with more support.
its nice seeing another local on here, im just up in north east from ya in guttenberg.

 

Funny that you posted, because I remember seeing a picture of your truck a long time ago and it became my favorite. Favorite body year, stepside, and it's not overdone. What springs did you go with in the front? I read your build briefly but couldn't find it.

 

Thanks, for the front springs i went with rancho 44044. they are for a jeep wagoneer.

 

Alright, there's been a slight change in plans. The original ranger I was gonna buy, the guy didn't have a title....So instead I'm gonna buy my buddy's 2wd 2.3L 88? Ranger. The plan is still to sas it, but also convert it to 4wd. The only problem is it's a 5 speed. Anyone have any input what I should do for the tranny when I convert it to 4x4?