Front Axle Centerline?

[bondobob]

I'm installing a Fatman front end kit in my 57 and they want you to center their crossmember under the 1/2" hole that marks the centerline of the original front end. Other kits I researched suggested moving the centerline forward to center the wheel in the wheel well. What do you guys think? In some pictures I've seen the axle does look a little to far to the rear. I'm thinking 1". HELP

[Bagd74Jimmy]

I read some where moving either a inch or 1 1/2 will make the wheels centered in the well. I'll look for it and post when I find it.

[dwcsr]

The old axle center line is approximately 1/2" rearward of the pilot holes. It is 150.5 inches from the rear frame horn with the bumper extensions removed. There is a lot of wheel well opening on the front of the tire in the stock location when its lowered. Moving it ahead an inch will center it in the well as well as giving you tire clearence on turns.

It you don't have the front sheet metal clip off yet put a tire in the well, measure from the rear frame horn to the tire hub center. Remember that 55 2nd - 57 frames are different than 58 -59 frames. 55 2nd - 57 are shorter from the radiator mount forward.

Take a look at these two articles they may help you get an idea of setting it up. Its not a fatman but the idea is the same. This setup is much more difficult than a fatman and I don't advise doing it unless you have a lot of experience. The second article will help you check your frame before you begin.

http://www.webrodder.com/article.php?AID=264&SID=60
http://www.webrodder.com/article.php?AID=261&SID=60

[bondobob]

Thanks dwcsr, great photo and links.