My Build Thread (year+) on 71 Jimmy 4x4

[RckyMntnKng]

Guys,

I switched over to a 2wd steering box so i can run crossover.

I have a 3" body lift and 6" susp lift.

Those of you that have done a crossover may know the input shaft on the steering box takes a different joint to connect with the steering column.

Does anyone remember the part number and where they got it?

[RckyMntnKng]

Solved that above problem with a new steering coupler from Borgeson.
New box for the 2wd was a 13/16" 36 but has couple flat sides and is actually a 31 spline.
-----------------------------------------

Here is another question. Burt please allow me to use your picture for comparison.

My question is about the passenger side spring perch studs.

I had to use like 6 washers in mockup because the thread ended that much higher than where I needed to go to get tight on the spring plate.

Also it is difficult to get the plate square when there is a gap b/w the spring perch and where the studs are.

hard to explain but look at these 2 pics. It seems to be working fine the way ive installed it, but I want it to be correct (safe)

I think I have some sort of extra long studs in mine from someone before me who had a really thick spring pack or shims?

[Burt4x4]

Hay Dude! Happy Monday.
The factory design used bolts that held the spring plate inplace. converting to a stud is considered stronger. I haven't done this my self as my 60 came with the studs you see in my pic. I have a much thicker plate than you too. The gap under the plate is needed to keep the down pressure even with the U bolt side so don't put anything under the plate
I would get something different in there..the stack of washers doesn't look right, I would be a bit nervous running it like that, probly fine for around town drving but nothing more.
.
02c
Burt

[RckyMntnKng]

WSUP man happy monday to you as well.

I agree seems unsafe the way it is. I figured it would work temporarily while in build mode just moving around in my driveway and garage or at most around the block slow to test brakes and steering. I knew it would need fixed eventually.

I guess my next task is to find shorter studs or maybe use a grade 8 bolt just a hair shorter than the bottom out length.

How thick are your spring plates Burt? I thought these ones I got were plenty thick and heavy from a 4x4 shop. I measure 3/8" thick. Think they might not be beefy enough to hold up? I dont want to warp or break a new set of expensive springs.

[Burt4x4]

I did a serch on the internet and found the studs being used are mostly homemade from Grade8 all thread size is 5/8" x 11 TPI, then just cut the all tread to fit your needs.


The plates I have came with my 60 when I bought it. They are cast and looks like the type that had the swaybar connected to them...I don't know exacty were they were used. My guess is 1Ton 73up Truck?

[RckyMntnKng]

Copy that, thanks.

Off to Home Depot again!

[RckyMntnKng]

Little bit more done this weekend.

Stripped out all the dash crap (all needs redone) and sanded it down, primer'd, Bed liner'd everything. Started a CB install in the dash. PO already cut the hole so might as well.

Got my 2wd steering box installed as well as a vib reducing Borgeson steering u-joint.

Started aquiring parts for my doubler, and the crossover is ready to install now.

Also I'm almost done with my tube doors...will have pics on those after I get them installed.