Real time help: Ironman front suspension install

[pawnthatdude]

I'm installing Ironman Foam Cell Pro struts and Ironman UCAs into my 200. I've gotten stuck at reattaching the ball joint on the new UCA to the steering spindle. They are 6 inches apart and I cannot move the steering spindle any closer to try and line them up. The steering spindle moves side to side in an arc, but I can't get the top to move closer to the UCA.

Sway bar is disconnected, LCA mounts are loose, UCA mounts are loose.

It seems like the new strut won't compress to let the steering spindle move closer, but even with a floor jack under the lower ball joint, the Cruiser is coming off the jack stands rather than the suspension being compressed. I feel like it shouldn't be this far off target.

 

[3D FJ]

Is the spring supposed to be that extended?

 

[vipergrhd]

Loosen up lower control arms and find large ratchet straps and start cranking down. Also if you have a tool to loosen the up the spring seats it would lessen the tension for the meantime.

 

[pawnthatdude]

Love how quick Mud is.

LCA mounts are loose, so ratchet strap between the UCA and LCA? Or the spindle arm and the UCA?

Video for clarification: New video by Eli Z - https://photos.app.goo.gl/3dFk2vk2Q552iDMw9

 

[vipergrhd]

I would try UCA to LCA first and rotate the front axle while you raise it the inboard CV is binding when drooped.

 

[pawnthatdude]

Okay, even with the strut out same problem. Something is bound up. I can raise the LCA with the jack now, but the spindle is all cock eyed.

 

[vipergrhd]

Okay, even with the strut out same problem. Something is bound up. I can raise the LCA with the jack now, but the spindle is all cock eyed.

It's the inboard joint, you may need to force it but rotate it as you try to push it back in. If it helps disconnect the tie rod for the meantime.

 

[pawnthatdude]

Got it figured out. The CV axle was bound up. I jacked the LCA up a bit and then had a friend turn the opposite wheel. It was rough but then it did a little pop and back to smooth rotation, now the spindle moves freely.

 

[Yarrow Babb]

I’ll bet your inboard Drive shift has come out. Try rotating it to get it seated.