Front Axle--Rework or Replace?

[ClassicIDI]

I had thought about welding my TTB together but when I looked at it I thought it would hit the crossmember when the suspension was compressed. Do you have any pics of how you did it? Did you retain the third u-joint in the front axle or replace with a soild shaft.

 

[zigg]

[quoteI thought it would hit the crossmember when the suspension was compressed.][/quote]

Yeah, I thought mine would hit the crossmember too, that's one of the reasons for the F350 positive arch springs, as well as the improved ride height and clearance above the bump stops...

I did retain the 3rd u-joint. Just cut off the end of the passenger side, used a honkin' big piece of 1/4" channel, and lots of welding rod and reinforcing bits, and she's as solid as can be. I had it checked out by a front end and frame shop, and got a good alignment, and it rides better, tracks straight and true, and no more tire wear, weird "popping" on turns etc.

Here's a couple pics: I had a bunch, but lost them in a 'puter crash...(not very good, but you should be able to get the idea)

..from the front..
..From below..
..From the top..
..Stabilizer rod to pass side..

Hope this helps a bit...

Zigg

 

[sle2115]

sassyrel,

Were you able to mount up your existing steering linkage to the D60 tie rods? Any problem with your stock pitman arm being too short given the 1' lift from the springs being relieved of some of their stress??

Thanks for the reply!

The pitman arm is different for the F350. I just installed that on my current steering box and it works great. It has a little drop to it.

 

[ClassicIDI]

So how did you know where to weld them. Just eye ball it and hope for the best. What I was thinking was to leave every thing on the truck jack it up to the point where the axles are staight and weld some braces on. Then remove the whole thing and really weld the crap out of it.