I have a 2wd 97 ranger.  I'm lookin to make it a 4wd.  I don't know what to do.  Would it be cheaper to switch bodies with a 4wd or should I get all the new parts to switch.  also...would my 97 ranger xlt body fit on a f-150 frame(i heard it would).  

The best way would be for you to swap in running gear from a 4x4. But this is a lot of work for just once in awile 4 wheeling. sell it and by a 4wd, or if you want to do some more "hard core" 4 wheeling you can swap in a solid axle from a early bronco.  

It would be a major pain for you to do 2wd to 4wd transfer, at least for transfer case and axle swaps, too much work, but if your into that, then go for it. As far as the body fitting, it might be possible, I don't know for sure.  

97rangerdanger:
I have a 2wd 97 ranger.  I'm lookin to make it a 4wd.  I don't know what to do.  Would it be cheaper to switch bodies with a 4wd or should I get all the new parts to switch.  also...would my 97 ranger xlt body fit on a f-150 frame(i heard it would).

With enough time and money, about anything can be made to somewhat fit but why?? The result would be a body a lot narrower than axles and you would have to cut front wheel wells a lot for turn clearance or use a very high body lift a and the result would be a 4x4 that is not really good at anything other than attracting attention. Plus it would always be throwing water spray and mud on windshield from front tires which is not very cool in practice either.  

On a beam Ranger you best option is SAS. The 2wd IBeam mounts are different than the 4WD TractionBeam mounts. Sure it can be done, but in the end a SAS would be easier and cheaper...