Do you want to convert your FWD to RWD?
Before you start the conversion, you must know all the pros and cons of FWD and RWD.
Converting your FWD to RWD may bring a fantastic driving experience.
But it requires a lot of time, money, and skills.
I have written this article for you if you can afford all these things.
What is Front Wheel Drive?
A front-wheel drive (FWD) system transmits the engine’s power to the front wheels to propel the vehicle forward.
Front-wheel drive systems use the front wheels for steering and propulsion.
The transmission and front axle transmits engine power to the front wheels.
FWD has a number of benefits, such as a better grip on slippery roads, better gas mileage, and lower production costs.
FWD is commonly found in small and midsize cars but is also used in larger vehicles like minivans and SUVs.
What is Rear Wheel Drive?
A rear-wheel drive (RWD) system transmits power from the engine to the rear wheels, which move the car forward.
The rear wheels propel rear-wheel drive systems, while the front wheels steer.
In RWD, the drive shaft transmits the engine’s power to the rear axle.
A suspension connects the rear wheels to the vehicle’s body and rear axle.
RWD has a lot of benefits, like better weight distribution, which makes handling and performance better, especially in sports cars.
Since RWD does not carry the engine and transmission weight, the steering control is more precise.
But rear-wheel drive uses more gas than front-wheel drive and may not perform well when the roads are wet.
RWD is commonly found in sports cars, luxury cars, trucks, and SUVs.
What is FWD to RWD Conversion?
The term “FWD to RWD conversion” describes the process of converting a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle to a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle.
Engine power is transmitted to the front wheels of an FWD car, which steer and propel.
In an RWD car, the engine’s power is transmitted to the rear wheels.
A car can be converted from FWD to RWD by swapping out its FWD driveshaft, differential, axles, and transmission with RWD ones.
The conversion procedure requires a lot of changes to the car’s suspension, chassis, brakes, fuel system, and cooling system.
How to Convert a FWD to RWD [8 Step Guide with Video]
Changing a car from front-wheel drive (FWD) to rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a difficult process that requires knowledge, time, and past experience.
However, if you’re a car enthusiast who wants to improve your car’s performance, this conversion can be worthwhile.
To convert your FWD car to RWD, follow these 8 steps:
Step 1: Find Out Whether Your Car is Convertible
To find out if your car is a good candidate for this modification or not, you must do some research before starting the conversion process.
Engine configuration is the first thing to consider.
Cars with a transverse engine configuration are unsuitable for FWD to RWD conversions.
Make sure your car has a longitudinal engine.
Longitudinal engine means the engine is mounted at the front with its crankshaft parallel to the car’s length.
It is also important to consider the car’s weight distribution.
A front-wheel-drive car distributes weight more evenly between its front and rear wheels.
In an RWD setup, the weight is distributed more toward the rear, which can affect the car’s handling.
You need to make sure your car can handle the change in weight distribution.
Step 2: Remove the FWD Components
If your car is suitable for conversion, the next step is to remove all the FWD parts, such as the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles.
Since these components will not be used in the RWD setup, they must be removed completely.
Step 3: Install the RWD Transmission
The next step is to install the RWD transmission after removing the FWD components.
Select a transmission with a tail shaft that can connect to the driveshaft compatible with your engine.
The transmission mount will also need to be modified to fit the RWD transmission.
Step 4: Install the RWD Driveshaft and Differential
Once you’ve installed the RWD transmission, you need to install the driveshaft and differential.
The driveshaft needs to be aligned and balanced correctly to prevent vibrations and damage.
You also need to ensure that the differential is properly supported and secured.
Step 5: Modify the Suspension and Chassis
Since RWD cars have different suspension setups, the suspension, and chassis need to be modified.
Install a new rear suspension, modify the subframe, and add a cross-member to support the differential.
The rear suspension needs to be designed to handle the increased weight and power of the RWD setup.
To accommodate the RWD drivetrain, the chassis also needs to be modified.
Install new brackets and mounts to support the transmission and differential.
Step 6: Modify the Braking System
A front-wheel-drive car’s brake system is designed to transfer weight from the front to the rear wheels during braking.
You must modify the brake system to handle the changed weight distribution in an RWD setup.
The brakes may require larger rotors and calipers to handle the increased stopping power.
Step 7: Modify the Fuel and Cooling Systems
The fuel and cooling systems need to be modified to accommodate the new engine and drivetrain setup.
Install a new fuel tank, fuel lines, and cooling system to ensure that the engine runs correctly.
The fuel tank must be located in a position allowing proper weight distribution.
An RWD setup generates additional heat that must be dissipated by the cooling system.
To keep the engine cool, you may need to install a larger radiator or additional cooling fans.
Step 8: Install the RWD Axles and Wheels
Installing RWD axles and wheels is the final step in the conversion.
Select axles that are compatible with the differential and can handle the increased power and torque of the RWD system.
You also need to select wheels that are suitable for the updated weight distribution and tire size.
You can watch this video to convert your FWD to RWD.
Cost of Converting FWD to RWD
The cost of changing an FWD to an RWD can be very different depending on the brand and model year of the car, how many changes need to be made, and the quality of the parts used.
On average, the cost of an FWD to RWD conversion can range anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the conversion.
Final Thoughts
Changing a car from FWD to RWD is a complex process that requires skill, past experience, and a lot of time.
It’s important to make sure that your car is good for conversion and that you have all the tools and equipment you need to finish the job.
However, this conversion can significantly improve your car’s performance and handling.
It’s essential to take the time to plan and research the process to ensure that everything is done correctly and safely.
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