Convert 2wd Cab & Chassis to 4wd ?

[imaybail]

Found a motorhome I liked that is built on a Sterling 5500 cab & chassis, but it is two wheel drive and I want/need 4wd. Does anyone know if it is possible to convert it to 4wd and who could I get to do the conversion?

 

[Grizzly]

I'm sure it's possible, but it'll cost you an arm and a leg. May be better off finding one with the 4WD already on it.

 

[imaybail]

The motorhome builder doesn't build them on 4wd chassis.

 

[HBarlow]

Compared to other conversions from 2wd to 4wd, converting a Ram 5500 C&C should be easier because the Ram C&C platform uses some 4wd components as factory equipment on 2wd units.

The frame and suspension components are all 4wd and the ride height of a 2wd C&C is the same as a 4wd.

The front axle assembly of a 2wd C&C is a modified casting that uses a 4wd axle assembly with what appears to be the differential housing cast in but it is a dummy, a differential couldn't be installed.

My guess, and I empathize guess, is that you could buy a 2wd C&C, jack up the frame, and remove the entire 2wd front axle assembly and simply bolt in the 4wd front axle assembly.

Of course you would be forced to purchase a long list of very expensive components including front driveshaft, transfer case, mounting brackets, hardware, and lots of electrical/electronic control modules, and harnesses.

The engine may use a separate and distinct ECM or the PCM may be different.

I don't know if the Aisin is interchangeable between 2wd and 4wd or if one has a special casting.

The conversion is probably relatively easy to accomplish but the components would cost a fortune unless you got lucky and found an identical wreck in a salvage yard.

My unsolicited advice is the cost wouldn't be worth the reward.

 

[mickeyblueyes]

I know for a fact that there is a guy in Oklahoma and another one in San Diego that has done the conversions for large motor homes to 4x4 my friend drove his topkick?550 with a dura max down and got it 4x4 now drives it on the beach. Another guy had a big Ford 550 class c converted over to 4x4 You can call Quigley 4x4 in Penn. and ask them for recommendations in your part of the country.
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