smart 4x4

[Larry N]

Good afternoon folks. I am a transplant from Tennessee to the frigid north of Canada. I have a couple smarts (maybe 3 after this weeks auction) and One is out of warranty and I am wanting to make it a 4X4 for purely functional purposes. Anyone knowing where to start would certainly be appreciated.

Thanks, larry

[Larry N]

I am not looking to make it a tank but my wife has always had a 4X4 and won't drive it all winter (which here is 6-8 months a year!

[gbryers]

Larry,
Much depends on how mechanically inclined you are, and what tools (and money) you have available. To build something like the "monster smart" that is floating around the internet, you need to engineer a carriage to lay the smart on. That carriage is what you actually mount the axles and drive-train to.
If you are looking to just mod a smart to 4x4 (no real extreme lift, etc.) you will still need to do basically the same thing.

You need to locate or fabricate the appropriate axle shafts, motor mounts, etc. etc., which can cost a fair amount of money, and if you do it yourself, time as well. You need access to a decent machine shop (lathes, mills and a good welder, for a start).

I'm sure if you do search the internet, you will find plans, or at least a guide, on how to build a 4x4.

But, should you opt to do this, PLEASE take lots of pics, and post them here. We would all love to see it!

Thanks

[The Rigger]

Originally Posted by Larry N

I have a couple smarts (maybe 3 after this weeks auction) and One is out of warranty and I am wanting to make it a 4X4 for purely functional purposes.

I suppose you could set it on a shortened Jeep frame...

[rjc57]

I eyeing my 1976 cj-5 setting in the garage. It has a real short wheel base,
with a bad motor (crank bearings shot) in it. Will the Smart fit on it? Have to
get out the measuring tape! Hehe