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Old 09-22-2012, 08:30 PM   #1
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Late Model Front End Conversion

It has been somewhat in question if you can take early model 1993-2007 van and convert it to a late model 2008-2012 front end.
The answer is YES.
Without going into a step by step procedure this is a straight forward bolt on procedure. So no more guessing, it can be done.



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Old 09-22-2012, 08:43 PM   #2
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

Nice! I have been wondering about this. Did you have to change the core support too?
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Old 09-22-2012, 08:57 PM   #3
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

You don't have to change the core support. Although on the core support there is a piece that bolts on, it was replaced because hood latches are different. You loose two mounting bolts on each side of the top of the fenders otherwise everything bolts right up. I might add there are a few places to drill holes for the difference of Mounting configurations of certain brackets. But when doing the conversion you'll see it's very minimal....
You also need to add a late model hood prop.
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Old 09-23-2012, 12:04 PM   #4
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

That looks AWSOME!! I have always liked the new van front end and have wondered if it was possible to swap it out. Thanks for answering the question for everyone. I'm sure there are many others that have wondered about it also. Are all the parts new and about how much did it cost you to do the swap?

Thanks
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Old 09-23-2012, 02:07 PM   #5
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Late Model Front End Conversion

Nice to see you active again on the forum. Your original build is one of my favorites. Care to share your plans for this van? I like the wheel and tire combo. Can you post the details?
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Old 09-23-2012, 06:42 PM   #6
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

Yes, it's been done many times before. Basically ALL the metal from the "A" pillars forward and some mods to the wiring harness.
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Old 09-23-2012, 09:24 PM   #7
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

Thanks, I keep an eye on the forum and there's been a lot great builds since. Great work being done out there. Hopefully I was able to inspire anyone who read in some small way.
My plans are pretty simple for this van. I will either convert to 4wd via ujoint or a 2wheel lift. Not sure as of yet. The interior will be simple, I use it on a daily basis so very plain. Factory crew seat insulated and carpet through out.

The parts for my conversion were mostly recycled, there were a few parts that were ordered through ford. The cost will truly depend on what you can source the parts for.

I understand the conversion has been done before, I searched many times to find someone who actually admits to doing it. There has been one time that it was mentioned he had done it but very vague. The only wiring that was altered would be the difference in headlight configuration. Mine I chose to use the sealed beams so original factory plug was used. If you use composite headlights the three wire headlight plug will need to be changed. Otherwise no other wiring will need to be done.
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Old 09-24-2012, 08:59 PM   #8
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

GREAT Job!
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Front Axle - 1 Ton Spec Dana 60/King Pin/Open Knuckle/High Steer
Rear Axle - 1 Ton Spec Dana 60/Full Floating
Eaton E-Lockers Front And Rear/4:10 Gears
ARB Differential Covers - Nodular Iron With Dipstick And Drain Plug
Leaf Spring Suspension Front And Rear
46 Gal Transfer-Flow Fuel Tank
ExtremeAire Magnum Air Compressor
Reunel Rear Bumper
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Old 10-07-2012, 10:23 PM   #9
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

Hi I was wonder the same thing!! can you list all the parts that you used.. beside the obvious!!
I will really appreciated!!
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Old 10-08-2012, 11:22 AM   #10
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Re: Late Model Front End Conversion

great job!
i am also interessted in a list what parts are needed!
What i am also thinking for is to change the dashbord also to the newer one...uhhh i love it!
did anyone know if this also can be done and what you have to do?
I am expecting a lot of work?!
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