lv6l

Hello,

I'm interested in buying a 99-01 CR-V. I'm able to find many FWD models. I am looking for an AWD model. I have search and noticed many are converting 4WD/AWD to FWD but not the other way around.

Any links or knowledge on making this happen? (Convert FWD to 4WD/AWD)

Or is it not worth the time and effort and would be better to go track down the 4WD?

Thanks!

OneBadTurboCRV

Definitely not worth the time or effort unless you bought a parts car to go with it. From what I have seen most AWD CRVs go for $1,000 to $1,500 more than a FWD one. That's about how much it would cost to aquire all of the parts needed anyways - which are also very hard to come by as it is.

lv6l

Thank you very much for the information.

Do you know which model came with AWD? I read all EX had them. Not sure did all EXs came factory AWD or was it an option?

Any tips to spot out key differences to distinguish between LX/EX, FWD/AWD?

FYI: I am interested in automatic transmission only.

Thanks!

OneBadTurboCRV

Both LX and EX models came in FWD and AWD due to the automatic and that I am aware of it was an option to have AWD. If it's a 5-speed it's AWD no matter what and I haven't heard of one being anything other than an EX either. The difference between the LX and EX (aside from the trim and such) is ABS brakes.

Basically the only quick way to spot an EX is the split 5 spoke rims or depending on year / dealer add on - sunroof. The only quick way to spot RT4WD cars without laying on the ground is the little sticker on the rear windshield.

This picture shows the EX rims BUT no sunroof.



This shows how miniscule the ONLY identification decal is... Right below the wiper but right above the "H" emblem.

OneBadTurboCRV

Here is the sticker you are looking for...

lv6l

Thank you very much for that!!

As far as passenger armrest, I see some pictures showing armrest for passenger and some doesn't? Was this an option as well?

OneBadTurboCRV

That I am aware of it was an option or potentially EX only as all of the seat buckets (LX & EX) have the holes and threads built into the frame. You could even get them in leather too in SE models. SE models are easy to spot since they have painted bumper covers and door trim as well as a hard plastic spare tire cover painted to match. I have never seen a SE that wasn't AWD.

lv6l

Thank you for all the information everyone. I will keep the search on for an EX since the wife would really appreciate ABS.

Thanks again!

lv6l

The search for a good condition AWD CRV in my area has proven extremely hard.

I'm about to find FWD models in expeller condition for much less in price. I'm considering doing a conversion.

Question: as far as AWD transmission, drive shaft, rear differential, and rear axles is there anything else I need?

Do I need to change anything electronically? ECU? Thanks!

77777

yeah its not worth it. look at maybe travelling to get one, otherwise spending more. I wanted a 5 speed and I needed one fast, i would hate to admit how much I paid for it haha. not that it hasn't been a great car. if you were able to go to say Colorado where I live, its the opposite. I have only seen maybe 3 fwd crv's haha.

OneBadTurboCRV

I honestly don't know what is missing from a 2WD CRV rear end exactly to give you a full parts list so I will just assume everything. With that being said the rear hubs should be the same and all you need to do is pull the "dummy" shaft out and slide the axle in.

Assuming the rear differential carrier (cross beam) is missing, you will need all that and the special hardware due to the mount design. The rear differential mount and harmonic dampener as well as differential brackets would be needed as well. Well, the harmonic damper wouldn't be required technically as it's just there for "noise reduction".

There are minor odds and ends you should have but isn't required like the drive shaft hoops for instance. Other than swapping the transmission, it isn't extremely involved but parts will add up quickly without a doubt and definitely is NOT cost effective.

So quick list:

AWD Transmission (with transfer case)
Drive Shaft w/ hoops & hardware
Rear Differential Unit w/ mounts, brackets, & hardware
Diff Carrier Cross Beam w/ washer plates & hardware
Rear Axles & new nuts

Nothing is needed electronicly as it is strictly a self contained hydraulic unit (TCD - Dual Pump) inside the rear differential.

PS - IF you do this conversion, I would be interested in buying the 2WD axle stubs off of you.

lv6l

Haha I see.

I'm from California where we have 1 weather for the last century! It's not only hard to find an AWD but most AWD have been abused to a pulp.

I just want to know the how to just in case I ever need to.