I would like to move my front axle forward

[mr_manny]

I have already performed a SR, but would be interested in an additional 3/4 to 1".

One way to accomplish this is to simply drill the spring seats to allow relocation of the axle housing.
I like the current steering characteristics, and am wondering what issues I may encounter after this mod?

I am also running alum 2degree shims, which I can also drill...to line-up w/the spring-seat.
Some people have commented on the integrity of these aluminum shims and w/two holes, I am wondering if there are any steel units available? Or I shouldn't even worry about it?

all input is appreciated...thanks,
manny 72fj40

SUA, 2" lift springs w/55 springs in the back

 

[PabloCruise]

Manny,

I have not done this, but am interested in flipping my front springs around. (back to front) This is supposed to get front axle forward ~3".

What are your reasons for wanting to move front axle forward 3/4 to 1"?

HTH,

 

[woody]

putting the short side of the springs to the solid front hanger will add 3.5".

re-drilling the perch and the u-bolt plate can add about 1-1.5", depending on where you drill...my front springs are done this way and there are ZERO problems with it.

alum shims are considered bad, but IMO they will be no worse if you add a dimple/drill for the spring pin. steel is WAY better tho, much less chance of compressing/spitting out or of breakage.

 

[orangefj45]

flip the springs bro!

 

[mr_manny]

Due to an sm465 install, I am looking at having a custom front-shaft made.
If I was ever interested in moving the axle further forward, now is the time

Some of the reasons for moving the axle forward are:
Improving approach angle
Improving ride characteristics, as your wheelbase would increase
(please feel free to add to list...)


I would just like to research this a further before I commit to a front-shaft length.

manny 72fj40

Woody,
Thanks for the needed info...(still interested in your Ftowers)

 

[mr_manny]

flip the springs bro!

already have SR installed...just looking for a bit more

sorry I didn't make it to Daves, will have to catch up next time,

manny 72fj40

 

[ScottFJ40]

Do a 4link

 

[mr_manny]

Scott,
I have been following some of your cruiser progress, and I have to tell ya I can't wait for some wheeling updates

nice project...

manny 72fj40

 

[green73]

If you had an extra set of rear springs, you could put them up front. In your case it looks like you would have to move the fronts to the rear and vice versa though.

 

[hammerhead]

Spring flip will net approx 3.5" but if that is too much you can use FJ55 front springs which are center drilled for 1.75" axle relocation.

 

[ScottFJ40]

Thanks MrManny, I hope to be wheeling shortly. I want to order an orion too. Looks like even if I order one now, it will be awhile before I get it.



Sorry for the thread hijack, back on track for the longer wheelbases!

 

[haystax]

Manny, i flipped the front springs when I did all my work last winter, I think that is the easiest thing to do since you already did the reversal. I need a custom driveline, my fix was simply a longer tube but the spline travel is way too short.

Unless you move the back axle as well, it looks pretty goofy. The approach angle and on raod handling are improved but the turning radius is now bigger than before. You're running 33's right? 35's would look better i think, there is a lot of exposed wheel well. Mine maybe a little further forward since the frame plates from ButchBuilt put the hanger another 1.5" forward.

I'm not a fan of redrilling spring packs, seems like the original hole creates a weak point for future breakage to occur. So you don't have a cut/turn that's why you have caster shims? Since you have already done the SR I guess you can't relocate the back hanger mount to fix the caster that way?

Good luck.

 

[mr_manny]

Since I currently have stock toyota steering, it looks like another inch may cause some rubbing issues...
I think I will leave it w/just the spring flip - WB 97" inch.

thank you all for all your input,
manny 72fj40

 

[hammerhead]

Now I see in your pic you have the SR w/springs already flipped...

If you decide to do a saginaw you'll have a good excuse to swap your front spring perches to the forward position netting approx 3.5" forward axle relocation.

 

[dd113]

NAPA sells bronze shims in 2.5's. Much better than either alum or steel. It is soft enough not to crack.

 

[mr_manny]

bronze degree shims? will have to look check them out.
tack welding some steel replacements, is probably the better option...

thanks for the info,
manny 72fj40

 

[Soul_Man]

If you reverse the springs, what changes do you have to make to steering geometry etc. Do you need a custom/longer drive shaft?

I'm starting a rebuild and plan a mild lift with OME, tires no larger than 33" and possible shackle reversal. If I reverse the springs to get better approach angle, will I need a new driveshaft? Any on-road handling problems?