Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 2WD Low Kit

[Lube Man]

I just discovered there was such a thing as a 2WD low kit for 4WD. Just the ticket for backing up trailers! I came across a kit sold by Bob Verhoef that looks pretty neat. There's also one I think called the Low Ranger. Anybody have experience with these kits and could recommend one of these or something else. Thanks in advance for your help.

Ed

 

[pnwradar]

I installed BobV's shifter knob & 2-low kit a few months ago. Pretty simple, even for a computer geek with no mechanical skills. All the parts were included, and the instructions were clear and accurate.



-jon-

 

[BV]

2 low kit

I also have the a BobV 2 low kit mounted between the 5sp and t-case shifters. Works Great and install was pretty easy thanks to Bob.



BD Power had a kit that was electrically acuated for around the same $$$$ but I prefered the manual switch instead.



If you search the old threads you will find instructions on how to use a honda egr part, some hose, wire and a switch to make your own if you want.

 

[bighammer]

I went to a truck equipment dealer and got a pneumatic switch used for lift gates. (~$20) Has an inlet and 2 outlets plus a vent for each of the outlet when switched to the other one.

 

[Texas Diesel]

Bighammer, do you have the manufacturer name and part number? Sounds like that switch would work as a manual control to looc and unlock the front axle.

 

[Slow Six]

2 low kit

I installed the 2 low kit from B-D last year and have had good luck with it. It is a real clutch saver as I am constantly backing up trailers. The only problem I have had is with the vacuum control switch not operating. It is easy to fix by taking it apart and cleaning and some lubing. Instructions for installing and operating were good. Definitely a good bang for the buck.

 

[Whitmore]

2 thumbs up

About a month ago I installed the 2 wheel low kit from Bob V and it is a great product with great value, if you tow and do lots of hook ups and backing trailers into tight spots than this is for you, I also got the added value of having my exhaust break switch on the knob as well, The kit was easy to installe and the instros were very clear, I also took my stick shift to work so our machinest could shorten it by 3 ", be aware that these sticks are hollow, he had to put a insert into it and than lathe it down,



I give the Bob V's 2 low E/F kit a 2 thumbs up

 

[bighammer]

don't know it. but maybe I can look it up. I'll get back to you.

 

[Goddard]

careful which kit you buy! i don't know for sure on other kits . bobvs kit holds vacuum both ways for locked in or not. the actuator for our front diff uses vacuum to lock AND unlock the diff. some thing that definately needs looked @

 

[bighammer]

Found the reciept (sorry for the delay) and it just says



BAV010 Pnuematic Switch $23. 95



It's from GTR Equipment Co. Traverse City, MI (231) 943-9640



They do utility bodies, snow plows, dump boxes, etc. The guy there told me this valve is for control of lift gates. The body of it is about the size of a box of matches. It's a push/pull with a knob like a manual choke. Travel is about 1/4 - 3/8 of an inch. There are 3 threaded holes where I screwed in nipples for vacuum tubing. (can't remember if the 2 vents are threaded) One comes off of the vaccuum source, and one to each port on the front axle.



... . and that's all I got to say about that.

 

[CRuD]

I have the B/D 2 low kit and think it is the best mod that I have done so far. It is great to back up with the clutch completely engaged and to be able to back up slowly. I back mine into my barn when ever we are done using it and of course in the campground.

I recommend the B/D kit due to using it for roughly a year with no problems.

Hope this helps with your decision.

See Ya

Chris

 

[stick]

I purchased the solenoid from www.eaglecontrols.com it is a Numatics L01SA459B. This is a very small 12v solenoid that is used with a lot of the exhaust brakes.

To install, find the vacuum line header along the top of the fire wall just above the fuel filter. You will find a vacuum line going down to the transfer case. All you have to do is place the solenoid in this line, which when activated will block the vacuum from going to another solenoid that is activated when you pull the transfer case shifter in.

So when you have it installed, you turn the solenoid on, and then pull the shifter in, and walla!!

It works very well when backing a heavy load, or when you want to creep over rough terrain, and don't need 4x4.

I hope this is at least clear as mud! It's really pretty simple.



Stick

 

[moremph]

anybody know how to find this bob guy? all the links i have found are no good now. thanks Travis

 

[Thomas]

Bob is a TDR member. Try looking for member Bob V. He has posted recently.

 

[Bob V]

Moremph, if you are still looking for me, my e-mail is -- email address removed --

 

[Lube Man]

I have had the Verhoef kit installed now for almost 2 years. Best mod I have made. Works great if you tow anything.

 

[jtisdale]

I have had Bobs kit in for a year and a half. Front switch runs the Pac, and the side switch runs the front axle disconnect. You can also go in and out of 4wd (high or low) on the move.

The kit is very easy to instal, and the directions are very thourough (complete with diagrams and schematics). By far one of the best bombs I have done yet. Well worth the $.

#ad

 

[RCapehart]

Bob V's kit. Simple to install. Great instructions. I use it all the time.

I was on vacation last week and a guy watched me back into a campsite them came over and asked me how I kept my front tires from scrubing with it in low range.



Ron

 

[DLBurns]

Just ordered mine last week... Bob is checking to see whether or not the switch will fit in the console around my transfer case shifter without interfering with the shift lever.

Last time out with the fiver I could have really used the 2wlow kit as I had to get my trailer up a hill into my campsite... temps were in the 90's and the transmission temps got to 240 pretty quick

 

[jcbrown]

Alternate Mounting for 4-Way Valve Assembly...

Behind dash. I'm running vacuum tubing through firewall grommet.



Oo.