I found a 2wd 55.2 ($2,000) and then found an old 58 NAPCO panel for the 4x4 axles and a 10,000lb factory winch ($1,500). I've seen just the 4x4 system on Ebay for a lot less. It was a pretty straight forward swap. Drill four holes in the middle cross member for the divorced transfer case, 3 in the side of the frame for the TC shift mount and swap in the axles. I loved the look of the NAPCO front axle because the pumpkin is round and the steering shaft is behind the axle rather than in front. It gives it a military look. The problem is the brakes are drum. I figured that I won't be driving this thing on the highway anyway so that should be fine. But I did install a power brake booster, dual master cylinder and cross drilled brake drums, front and back. Hopefully it will help in the stopping area. In my opinion this is the easiest way. But it depends on what you want your truck to do. Do you want it to fly down the highway? Stop like a modern truck? If so, go with bartamos's plan. I can't wait for that book to come out! I will be your first customer! Also, you can't just throw in a 4" lift block in the back and be done, you need the shim that goes with it as well. It turns the pinion up just enough to keep the ujoints happy.
Good luck and let us know what route you are taking. PM me if you want more info on my build.
Michael
