Axle swap help

[Bullet]

Ok I need a little help with my latest project. I am replacing the Nissan axle with a Dana 44 from a Quadra Trac Waggoner. I am using the waggy springs because they are about 4” longer than the Patrol springs. I realize that having the shackles in the front has disadvantages but the pinion angle would have been way bad if I had done a reversal. Right now the pinion angle is about the same as it was in the jeep. I have never done an axle swap like this before and I think I’m on the right track but if it looks like I’m doing something stupid or way wrong please let me know. I think I want to move the axle back about 4” so the tire is more centered, I still need to make a brace for the rear spring hanger, mount my steering gear, and make upper shock mounts.. Any advice would be welcome at this point. Thanks for the help.

 

[Bud]

Ok I need a little help with my latest project. I am replacing the Nissan axle with a Dana 44 from a Quadra Trac Waggoner.
It looks like its coming along pretty good. How far does the new front frame horms overlap the old, that could be a break point. Make sure the end of your pitman arm is going to lineup well to the tie rod. And vertical gussets on the rear spring hangers. Make sure there's a crossmember bar under the radiator, that will help keep twist down on the front horns and help prevent frame cracks at the steering box area. Sleeve inserts in the frame for the steering box bolts will keep the frame from squeezing in...
Bud

 

[James K]

I think you are doing fine. one thing, clean the frame off better before you weld the brackets at the rear of the springs.

I personally would leave the axle forward like it is. Also have you checked the caster angle?

 

[Coreshot]

I agree with James, don't move the axle back at all. With the frame extension, your approach angle will be hurting your progress if it's any worse.

PS- cool rig... I've always wanted to build a Patrol.

 

[Bullet]

I have about 3” of over lap on the tops and about the same on the sides of my frame extensions. I will grind the frame and sand blast the rear brackets before I finish welding (I just tack welded to get an idea of how every thing was going to fit) , I also need to finish removing the original rear spring brackets. As far as moving the axle back I was going to shorten my frame extensions to help maintain my approach angle but I kind of like the added wheel base, I may just leave it where its at. Thanks for the encouragement I have been a little apprehensive about taking on a project like this. the only thing that will be Nissan when I'm done will be the body and frame.

 

[James K]

anymore progress?

 

[Bullet]

no progress on the Patrol but I finished my basement.

 

[Tacoma]

hahahah nice!

I can't wait to see this thing running. I almost bought one in 97. Neat little rigs.

 

[mwmx54]

any progress yet???

 

[Bullet]

Ok I am finally getting back to my Patrol! I have a couple questions about the caster angle. I know to little is bad and to much is bad. So how do you know where to set it? I have looked up specs on similar wheel base vehicles and get any where from 0° to 9°. I am willing to compromise street performance a little, but would like to drive it to the trail, around town and some freeway. I know that ideally the pinion angle should be set and the knuckles cut and welded but I am not even going to pretend that I have the skill to do that so I am going to have some compromises in working with what I have. Thanks for the input and wish me luck!

 

[James K]

I would shoot for 6* of caster.

cutting and turning knuckles is not so much skill as it is time you have to spend to do it.

 

[Milner]

I would shoot for 6* of caster.

cutting and turning knuckles is not so much skill as it is time you have to spend to do it.

Yep, shoot high, but if you can only get 3, drive it and see what you think...