I did a little digging last night. The door stickers indicate a 9000lb GVWR, 3968# Front, 6084# Rear. I've searched and searched without any confirmation as to the upper loading limit of my axle. If Vandoom is correct, this axle is probably the 4350# version since 3750# is below the front stated GVW. I poked around in the dirt and the existing knuckles are un-drilled flat tops, so my steering and panhard scenario stated above can work with my existing hardware. My next mission is a trip to the scales to get my actual front and rear weights.
If this all can work out with the existing Dana 44 HD (which I suspect it can), than the following task list should get the job done:
1. Remove the existing steering and panhard links
2. Cut off existing panhard brackets on both the axle and crossmember
3. Remove the PS Knuckle, drill for a high-steer arm and fabricate/mount arm
4. Fabricate the axle-end panhard pylon mount
5. Fabricate the frame-end panhard mount
6. Remove existing pitman arm, install new pitman arm with less droop angle
7. Fabricate and install Panhard Bar (bushing ends)
8. Fabricate and install steering drag link (tie rod ends)
9. Fabricate and install steering crossover link (tie rod ends)
10. Adult Beverage.
The above list doesn't represent much more than 20 hours of work which isn't too terrible. I've got to finish my rear swing out project first and then I'll be diving right into this.
SG