1996 Suburban 4wd To 2wd

[Bilster]

I have the opportunity to purchase a decent 1996 Suburban with no drivetrain what so ever. It was originally a 4 X 4. I have a nicely built 5.7 TPI and 700R4 that I would like to install but it's a two wheel drive transmission. Would it be possible to find a crossmember and driveshaft to a 2 wd version and install this combination without a transfer case and front 4 x 4 mechanisms? In diagrams I've seen, it looks like the front hubs would just free wheel without the driveshafts attached. Is this correct or is there something I'm missing in regards to the attachment of the front suspension?

[Zembonez]

I have the opportunity to purchase a decent 1996 Suburban with no drivetrain what so ever. It was originally a 4 X 4. I have a nicely built 5.7 TPI and 700R4 that I would like to install but it's a two wheel drive transmission. Would it be possible to find a crossmember and driveshaft to a 2 wd version and install this combination with out a transfer case and front 4 x 4 mechanisms? In diagrams I've seen, it looks like the front hubs would just free wheel without the driveshafts attached. Is this correct or is there something I'm missing in regards to the attachment of the front suspension?

A little unusual but it could be done. I'm sure something along the way would have to be modified but what the heck. No front diff or axles would be lighter but you'd still have the 4x4 front torsion suspension setup that you could adjust. I'd check and see if you needed a pan for a 4x4 because of frame differences maybe?