Builds 1966 FJ40 Frame-Off Build (3rd Generation Owner)

[Rock40]

OK, I need some advice/input here: I rebuilt the 66' center arm today and mocked it back up in the frame. Here's the thing, I suspect that the center arm pivot is bent, specifically out on the end were the relay rod attaches. This wasn't obvious when things were super dirty and the steering box had been removed from the truck before I got it. The issue that has cropped up (assuming the arm is bent) is that the relay rod is contacting the shock as it goes through it's arc of travel. All of these photos were taken parallel to the ground, I had a hell of a time getting the camera to focus correctly. I think the center arm/tie rod mount should also be parallel, not all bent over and in toward the frame.

 

[Jason Reed]

Does anyone have one of these center arms they'd like to sell me? Preferably straight (1966 FJ40).

 

[65swb45]

As you lift the truck, the angle of the shock between the tower and the axle decreases, leaving less room for the drag link. Exacerbate by using a shock with a stout oil can. Covered in multiple threads.

I outboarded the pin on the axle. That's where experience comes in.

 

[Jason Reed]

Mark- Do you have one on the shelf?

Jason-

 

[Rock40]

Mark, I hear you on that however that doesn't answer my question entirely. Is this piece bent? I think it is and that, along with what you describe above is creating this issue.

 

[thebigredrocker]

If you end up running a stock length arm I wonder if this might move the shock outta the way? —> Mark's Off Road Shock Tower

 

[Jason Reed]

I can't believe how convienent and nice these Conf-Ferr seats were in the time. Awesome fitment and spec. Got this one last month and just picked it up from powder coat and upholstery this morning. Just put it back together. So happy with it.

 

[Jason Reed]

Good progress today at the body shop. Finished all nut zerts, mocked up rear 1/2 doors and spare tire carrier and finished the tool box lid mount..

 

[ibinazbass]

In regards to your question about the center arm being bent, I believe that it is. Attached are the pictures of the center arm on my stock steering 1968.

 

[Jason Reed]

@ibinazbass Thanks for the help. That's all @Rock40 needed was a confirmation and he was right in the first place. Thanks, we'll get one on order.

 

[ibinazbass]

I'm glad my derelict Land Cruiser (compared to yours, at least) can help with such a gorgeous build! Great work and I can't wait to see the finished product.

 

[Rock40]

Thanks man. Your pics combined with the ones sent by @thebigredrocker in a PM confirmed that ours is seriously bent. I suspect downwards and backwards, forcing/pushing the relay rod into the shock body. The help is much appreciated, THANKS MUD!!

 

[Goforth]

I think your body man doesn't like photos during his work. He's clearly giving you the bird!

View attachment 1471627

 

[Jason Reed]

I think your body man doesn't like photos during his work. He's clearly giving you the bird!

Ya- he was joking about that. I saw that.

 

[Jason Reed]

Making progress. Body going to primer in a week & a 1/2 and @Rock40 finishing up Chassis in June. We're getting here.

 

[Rock40]

Wait....JUNE??

 

[Jason Reed]

Sorry- August. Whoops

 

[Rock40]

Today was brake line/brake union day. Jason bought the reproduction SOR hardline kit, I'd give it a B+ rating. Every line needed to be tweaked somewhat to fit and the labeling on line position was hit and miss. It took a lot of trial and error to figure out where things were supposed to go. All the lines are in place but loose currently as I'm waiting on an M9x1.0 tap to run down the unions.

 

[Rock40]

Last two pics....

 

[Rock40]

Replacement center arm showed up yesterday. Comparing this one to Jason's OEM one, it's bent horribly