Quote:
Originally Posted by PurpleFJ62
what is the reson for plating the frame in the front. aside from the gain in weight and strength, is it absoulty necessary for a solid axle swap?
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It doesnt add very much weight. It does however add a lot of strength. While toyota frames are pretty stout, when you add flexy suspensions, long travel shocks, cross over steering and big rubber, the strain on the front frame begins to add up. Tearing a shock mount off the frame on the trail isnt such a big deal, but try getting home after tearing your steering box off the frame. No fun.
I recommend plating your frame the entire length of the outside frame rails on both driver and passenger sides. you can beef up the inside of the frame but that isnt necessary except for where your steering box is located, well worth it to plate both sides of the frame and sleeve it as well. Marlin Crawler sells a cheap kit for the steering box alone and you can either fab the rest up on your own up or have a shop make the rest of the plates. I cut mine out of half inch steel and used a piece of cardboard to trace the frame. Dont forget to leave a hole for your Vin number on the passenger side.
The braces are mandatory IMO. At the very bear minimum, plate the steering box. I also recommend moving the steering box as far forward as you can to save yourself relocation down the road (in case you decide to stretch the wheelbase). I dont have any pictures of my frame plates but this should give you a good idea of what needs to be plated (Sorry for the poor paint skills :P)
