2WD - 4WD Conversion

[remac]

Let me start by saying hello. New 4runner owner. Well sort of I have inherited it from my girlfriend who has had it quite a while. With that said, I have a 1997 2WD with the 3.4 motor and automatic Transmission (A304E). After reading all of the conversion threads I am thinking of doing it myself as well. I am looking at either finding the parts at salvage yards or buying a complete donor vehicle. From what I have seen if I get the right parts it looks to be pretty much bolt in. So my main question is what year range should I be looking for? All of the generations of this style seem to be pretty close to the same in appearance. I know the motors were different depending on the year but what about the Transmissions, Hubs, Front Diff, Etc.
Thanks in advance for your help!!!!

 

[rickashay]

I'm sure Children of Bodom (COB) could send some knowledge your way! His build thread is INTENSE.

 

[theizzardking]

I'm sure Children of Bodom (COB) could send some knowledge your way! His build thread is INTENSE.

this^

or consider the cost of parts, your time and what you'd get for your 2wd if you sold it, and consider just buying a 4wd...

i know you've probably heard that before,but there is a reason for that, if your determined and can't be swayed COB's build thread is where you want to look and maybe drop him a PM, i think he maybe a mod now, either way he's a good guy and should be willing to help you out.