started my 4x4 conversion and I have some questions

[svo_jon]

I plan to install a 3/4 ton d44 front axle in my E150 using coil springs, radius arms and a track bar. My first question is; does anyone know what I should set my caster to? I plan to lift the van around 4".

Thanks
Jonathan

 

[BajaSportsmobile]

6 to 8 degrees

 

[svo_jon]

Cool, I was going to guess 6

Thanks
Jonathan

 

[svo_jon]

Anyone know how much to cut the cross member and where? Or maybe a thread with some pics?

Thanks
Jonathan

 

[Toolman]

Look at UJOR videos. That will pretty much tell you everything you neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed to know.

 

[svo_jon]

Thanks Toolman.

Can anyone tell me what the steering knuckles on a dana front axle are made of? Cast steel? Just wandering what I should use to weld my brackets to them with.

Thanks
Jonathan

 

[ujoint]

Cast iron

 

[svo_jon]

So, high nickel rod then?
Thanks
Jonathan

 

[system-f]

Can anyone tell me what the steering knuckles on a dana front axle are made of?

referring to the C-s welded on the axle: From my research and someone whom I trust I would say cast steel, but a spark test will tell for sure. Most of them are weld-able using standard methods. Many people have cut and rotated then welded using standard process without cracking. The word on the street for my Dana 44 (79 bronco high pinion) is they are cast steel and weld-able without a nickel rod. Your mileage may vary.

 

[svo_jon]

What is a spark test?

Thanks
Jonathan

 

[Jeffh555]

I narrowed and turned the early 70s Dana 44 under my rock crawler using standard mig wire and CO2/Argon mix. No pre heat or post heat, just burned them on. I've been wheeling it for about 8 years with no problems. Well, plenty of problems , just none related to the welding of the knuckles.

 

[svo_jon]

Thanks for the replies.

Jonathan