4runner solid axel swap

[Dan]

I own an 81 pick up w/ chevy v6 crawlerdual t case and too many suspension mods to list but the frame is rusty so i bought an 85 4runner. I whant to transfer my eng and t case. I would also like to swap over my solid axel.
should I swap both front and back axels from my 81 or even get a different front axel, my douse leak at all the seals. Also the 4runner is an automatic, will my 81 peddals swap over ok. Iown a large bodyshop and have the ability to get parts and do about any modification but i would like to do this project only once so any hot ideas anyone has to make the 4runner a better vehicle please pass them on, such as what to do with the steering. :up:      

[mr4x42u]

well the 85 is already stright axel,so whay not just leave it all in.if the sseals are leaking in the 81just leave it part it out or save all the good stuff.seals are easy to replace at anyrate..Unles you have lockers and gears you want to put in from your 81 it may not be worth your time because of the leaky seals,and if you do have that stuff,,just changs the seals,,sorry about the automatic thing,,I don't know if the pedals will bolt up,,i don't see whay they would not,,,anything is possible!! :up:

[Dan]

One year makes a big difference, my 4runner is an 86 not 85 as i stated in my original note.

[rEdnECkwHeE1eR]

Acually in your "origanal note" you stated: "I own an 81 pick up w/ chevy v6 crawlerdual t case and too many suspension mods to list but the frame is rusty so i bought an 85 4runner." (this is where you put you foot in your mouth)

[trt2]

Dan...

use your 81 front axle, keep the 86 rear axle.  the 86 is the wider, stronger axle housing and is desireable.  Your 81 front axle will need spacers applied to make it wider to match.  This will give you better stability of off cambor stuff.

some places like Front Range off road have the entire kit available for solid axle swap (SAS).  

your 86 also have the correct steering box for HySteer.  Suggest you install when rebuilding your 81 front axle for swap.

I have heard the pedals interchange well but never tried it.

your third members should fit as well in case you have R&P upgrades or lockers, just swap the rear.

Take care...

[trt2]

Oh, you will have tranny fit issues if using the 81, its shorter than the later units.

Being as your swapping out the auto, it may not matter.  Plan of floor cutting and drilling new cross member mount holes.

Ideally, you should upgrade the tranny.  The early units were not as dependable as later units.

take care...