RWD to AWD Conversion???

[Pobodysnerfect]

Has anyone converted their Tahoe to AWD? I may have a lead on a cheap Escalade that I’d like to pull the driveline out of and put in my RWD Tahoe. If so other than trans, transfer case, front differential/axles is there anything else I would need? I’m also assuming it should all bolt right up no issues since it’s the same chassis? My Tahoe is an 04 the Escalade is an 05.

 

[ivin74]

I have read about that been done to the single cabs on the Silverado SS forum. I don't see why it could not be done to a Tahoe. You may wanna get on that forum and ask those folks what it all is needed besides the items you already listed.

 

[wjburken]

I would get underneath and compare cross members, particularly at the front to make sure there are provisions for mounting the front differential. I thought there were some differences on the frames between 2WD and 4WD/AWD units, but am not positive.

Also check to see what the gear ratios are for both vehicles. If they are different, you may need to have someone change up some stuff to have your shift points set right and your speedometer read properly.

You didn’t mention drive shafts on your list, but you will need those as well.

 

[Pobodysnerfect]

Yeah I already had planned on driveshafts and gearing changes possibly for the Tahoe or just swapping over the rear end as well. From what little info I’ve been able to find as long as it’s a NP149 there shouldn’t be to many electronics associated to make it work. Just looking for input or issues that may arise or if anyone has ever done the swap.

 

[wjburken]

Yeah I already had planned on driveshafts and gearing changes possibly for the Tahoe or just swapping over the rear end as well. From what little info I’ve been able to find as long as it’s a NP149 there shouldn’t be to many electronics associated to make it work. Just looking for input or issues that may arise or if anyone has ever done the swap.

Confirm that the front spindles and wheel bearings are set up for running a CV shaft.

Only electronics might be output shaft speed sensors on the transfer case that would tie into the Stabilitrak system.

Another item to keep in mind is with AWD, you will need to make sure all 4 tires are the same. This can be a pain if at 30K you blow a tire and have to get a set of 4 so you don’t tear up the drive train with mismatched tire circumferences.

 

[rockola1971]

Wouldnt it just be easier to stick the Tahoe body onto the Escalade chassis?

 

[Pobodysnerfect]

Wouldnt it just be easier to stick the Tahoe body onto the Escalade chassis?

The issue with that is the Escalade was in a front end collision. I don’t want to mess with fixing all that. Also my chassis has 121,000 the Escalade has 244,000. I’m also planning to use the 6.0 in another project if I do buy the Escalade.

 

[Mudsport96]

Another item to keep in mind is with AWD, you will need to make sure all 4 tires are the same. This can be a pain if at 30K you blow a tire and have to get a set of 4 so you don’t tear up the drive train with mismatched tire circumferences.

Short of going to a different tire size, the awd system wont care about 7/32 worth of tread vs 13/32. If that was the case one tire being at 40psi and another being at 25, because the owner doesn't pay attention, would have dead awd vehicles littering the shoulders of the Interstate. Hell, govlocs aren't that picky with a new and a worn tire on the rear... and they explode if you look at them wrong.

 

[wjburken]

Short of going to a different tire size, the awd system wont care about 7/32 worth of tread vs 13/32. If that was the case one tire being at 40psi and another being at 25, because the owner doesn't pay attention, would have dead awd vehicles littering the shoulders of the Interstate. Hell, govlocs aren't that picky with a new and a worn tire on the rear... and they explode if you look at them wrong.

Can’t say that I agree with your stance, but that’s fine. I tend to error on the side of caution and not put undue stress and wear on my vehicle. Just like I won’t put a spare donut on the drive axle of a vehicle.

 

[Roadtested]

Has anyone converted their Tahoe to AWD? I may have a lead on a cheap Escalade that I’d like to pull the driveline out of and put in my RWD Tahoe. If so other than trans, transfer case, front differential/axles is there anything else I would need? I’m also assuming it should all bolt right up no issues since it’s the same chassis? My Tahoe is an 04 the Escalade is an 05.

Did you get this done? I'm interested in a follow up.