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Originally Posted by weakyota91
Im buying the axle tuesday. Im gonna do a sas on my 91. just had a few questions. I have never done something this extensive before.
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An SAS was my first major project as well. Then I was hooked... and haven't been able to put the wrenches down since... plus my wallet no longer puts an unsightly bulge in my pants cause it's now so thin.
Quote:
Originally Posted by weakyota91
1. my arb bumper will no longer be usable because front spring perches will be in way. What winch bumper would u guys suggest using so i can still have my winch?
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As stated above, an ARB will work... just needs a few mods, which will be child's play after all the work doing a swap.
Quote:
Originally Posted by weakyota91
2. I want to use the kit from wab fab seems cheapest and comes with everything needed. Has anyone used this kit v.s. others what do u suggest?
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Probably one of the most complete and cost effective kits out there. Tried and true.
Quote:
Originally Posted by weakyota91
3. is it necessary to move i.f.s steering box when using highsteer knuckles. If so how big of a pain is the part to do?
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Mine works in the stock location. I also kept the stock oilpan, even though some have mentioned clearance problems there as well. I'd start with the stock position and move only if you have interference issues.
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Originally Posted by weakyota91
4. I don't want a mechanical locker up front because u cant steer and don't have the money for selectable. I have Detroit limited front and rear now with ifs. what would u guys suggest as to put in with straight axle. How popular is limited slip in s.f.a. I really don't want to leave it open.
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I put an Aussie locker in the front of mine. Have had very few times where steering was an issue. In Moab on the high traction slickrock was the only terrain that really gave me issues. That said, I probably would have kept any selectable locked all the time anyway... so steerring would have still been effected with an ARB or similar.
You just need to upgrade the steering to some sort of hydro assist if you want to turn a fully locked rig on certain terrain. 9 times out of 10 you'll probably want to have a locker engaged even if it makes steering tougher. A front locker adds a ton of capability to your vehicle, and generally is easier on parts as you won't have that high wheel spin to full stop when it grabs traction.
Quote:
Originally Posted by weakyota91
5. what are pros and cons of doing this swap on a daily driver. I'm young and don't care about ride quality lol. Thanks in advance guys I'm sure it will be very helpful.
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Mine is a DD. I have no issue with the ride quality. On the freeway I'd bet no passenger could tell I didn't still have IFS. Speedbumps or higher speed off road you'll notice... but overall I have zero complaints. I drive this thing from AZ to UT and CO and my back is fine. The kit you have and quality shocks make a huge difference. I don't think you can fairly compare a modern SAS swap to an older factory straight axle. You'll be surprised I think.
The benefits I have found offroad from my SAS is ground clearance, more wheel travel, stronger steering components and the abilty to upgrade in terms of axles for even greater strength. I have Longfields now, which aren't available for IFS... and it's nice to have the piece of mind on the trail.
Additionally, you'll get an amazing amount of room underneath to get to things like your starter or oil pan. I think general overall access for most maintenance in the front end really improves. Alignment is a breeze and can be done yourself in 5 minutes or less... not that you will ever need to... the Hi-Steer and solid axle are beefy and simple.
I'd suggest adding a gusset in line with the frame behind the SAS hanger. I cracked my frame there, and after that happened it was easy to see why. Something like this:
Also suggest you plate the frame at the steering box once you find out if everything will clear. Those can crack as well... mine did.
Best of luck with your swap. It's a lot of work but very rewarding both in mechanical accomplishment as well as trail performance.
