Steering Upgrade Questions

[bogus one]

OK,
I've been searching, and haven't been able to find any answers that seem to apply to my situation.

I used to run the old MAF 4" springs, A/I shackles and 33's. It seemed that I was constantly rebuilding the center arm and relacing TRE's.

Currently, I'm running 5" lift Alcan's, SUA, anti inversion shackles and 33's. I also have a '79 piggy factory power steering set-up, that still utilizes the center arm.

I've been running this setup for a couple of years. Again, it appears I need to rebuild my center arm and relace my TRE's.

My Questions:

1) Can I utilize 80 Series TRE's (and rods) with my stock 55 set-up? Or do I need to go to wide pattern hubs and have some "tapering" done?
2) Is there a center "arm" available that will drop my Relay Rod angle? It seems pretty steep now with the 5" springs.
3) Hi-Steer? I've read about problems doing this on a SUA rig, plus I believe I'd have to upgrade to wide pattern hubs, not that I'm opposed to that.

Basically, what I am asking is, what is the best, most efficient way to upgrade my steering components without going the full 60 Series power steering route?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Poser]

What is a wide pattern hub?

 

[bogus one]

Knuckle, sorry.

Please don't go all "Poser" on me.

 

[Gonzo55]

This is a spring over toy axle?

 

[bogus one]

Spring UNDER stock 55 axle

 

[Gonzo55]

I would use 89 Toy pick up or 4 runner knuckles this will give you a wider pattern . The stock 55 are notorious for causing issues. If you use Trail gear arms they are set up for the wide pattern knuckles and 80 series TRE's . I paid $110 for arms and $80 for junk yard knuckles.

 

[djoeyd114]

I've got an extra set of mini knuckles if you are interested. If you are going do do the knuckles you might as well go the rest of the way with the 30 spline conversion

 

[LAMBCRUSHER]

How about 60 series or scout box and ditch the center arm. That's the problem with the set up anyway, no? I thought I saw some small pattern Hi Steer arms somewhere........I'd drill and sleeve the frame and slap a 60 box onit.

 

[LAMBCRUSHER]

well? or is this going to be another 5YO thread

 

[bogus one]

That's what I asking.

I'm going to go for the 60 box, but am wondering if I should bother trying some sort of high steer. If I do, I would think it'd be better to go with the large pattern knuckles.

 

[bogus one]

Thanks, John.

Keep in mind, though, I'm sprung under