Explorer Drive-train Swap

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Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby 66Crawler » Fri Dec 13, 2013 3:46 pm

The shop is finished and I have some money back in the bank, time to start acquiring parts for the mall crawler.

What is everyone's opinion of the 4R70W?

Has anyone done this swap local?

I am thinking of just buying a complete Explorer and swap motor and trans.

If I go this route do I get the adapter for the D20 or run a np205?

I don't care too much about the really low range, this is going to be a paved road driver. I just want to have 4wd when I am in the mountains in the snow.

Wiring, is it easier to run the engine harness and a separate trans controller or harvest everything from an explorer and use the wiring?
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Re: Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby Rox Crusher » Fri Dec 13, 2013 4:25 pm

I can chime in.

I did the Expoler 5.0 and 4R70W swap before the OBDII hybrid option was viable.

So I had to buy the trans controller, the TFI distributor and computer for the 5.0, and the EFI wiring harness. Probably about 1400 - 1500 bones right there.

Along comes Gary (EFI Guy) who pares down an Explorer harness to control engine and tranny but he eliminates all of the non-essential stuff required for the Explorer. You would have to contact him to get his pricing but going this route says a bunch of money and you end up with a better set up in my opinion.

So if you can get a complete low mileage Explorer donor you are golden.

I retained the D20 by using the AA adapter which requires replacing the output shaft but I was going to have the transmission rebuilt anyway so I felt that was the way to go.

I love the OD but you need to factor in final gearing for your intended use (mall crawler & hiway cruiser?).

Let me know if you have any specific questions.
1977 Sport, 351w OBDII EFI motor, 4R70W auto, 4:88 gears, ARB lockers, 3.5" suspension, 33" tires.
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Re: Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby 66Crawler » Fri Dec 13, 2013 4:47 pm

Rox,

How much longer is the 4R70W and the D20?

Have you found any downsides to this set up?

Thanks for EFI Guy, his harness looks like it would be the best way to keep it simple. Is he local? I found him on CB.com.

Thanks
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Re: Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby Rox Crusher » Fri Dec 13, 2013 4:55 pm

He is right here in good ol Mile High.

The combo is only about 1-1/4" longer than C4.

Only down side for me is the need to re-gear from 3.5 to 4.88 or 5.13 which I haven't done yet.
1977 Sport, 351w OBDII EFI motor, 4R70W auto, 4:88 gears, ARB lockers, 3.5" suspension, 33" tires.
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Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby Kinder » Fri Dec 13, 2013 6:46 pm

Use the AA zf/d20 adapter & save some cash. There are a couple of folks on CB.com that have gone this route.
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Re: Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby D&D72 » Wed Dec 18, 2013 10:36 am

I have a 4R70W for ya! and the explorer t-case if you want it. make me an offer I cant refuse........
That guy John.... whatta Jerk.
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Re: Explorer Drive-train Swap

Postby 66Crawler » Mon Dec 23, 2013 1:50 pm

D&D72 wrote:I have a 4R70W for ya! and the explorer t-case if you want it. make me an offer I cant refuse........



I am working on a complete truck but if I don't go that route I will let you know.

Thanks
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