87toypu

Alright kind of a long story but try to stay with me. Right now I drive an 88 toyota pickup with a 4" SAS using the kit from trail gear. The 3.0 in it is dying, the body is pretty beat up, and the frame is ok but has seen better days.

I also have an 83 frame that is in perfect condition, completely painted and everything. Ive got a 22r with only 5000 miles on it and a good 5spd tranny along with 2 4cyl gear drive t-cases. I have a really nice body ready to go on the frame as well.

Im heading off to college next year and really need something a little more reliable, but something I can still take to the off road park (Rausch Creek in PA) on the weekends. Also my dad wants me to get down to just one truck because my first plan was to build one for off road and one for the street but hes against that and I understand why.

My plan is to build up the 83 frame with a dual case set up as well as using the v6 rear end from the 88. Honestly as cool and capable as my truck is sitting up all high, its not quite the best for a DD haha.

Finally to my question, I already have high steer in my 88, but when I swap the lift over I would like to try to lower it a little. I know I need atleast 3" of clearance to use high steer. What I dont really understand is when I have a 4" kit, does that include the 2 inches the drop hanger adds? could I fab a smaller hanger, shorten the shackles, and bring it down some? Could I use a 2wd oil pan to gain a little bit of extra clearance?

Im open to any suggestions, I just need something a little better on the street. By the way Im only running 33's right now and plan to keep it that way. Thanks for any help in advance! sorry for such a long post!

4Crawler

iTrader: (3)

The SAS drop hangers are usually only 1" drop maybe 2" and that adds 1/2" (or 1") of lift. You could keep the stock '83 hangers or replace them with something stronger with little or no lift. Main issue with high steer and low lift (aside from your oil pan) is the drag link clearance between the frame and springs.

87toypu

do you think i could get away with out using a drop hanger and still clear the drag link? It looks like this may just be a little trial and error haha

4Crawler

iTrader: (3)

Possibly, I had problems on my '85 with my pitman arm hitting the springs under full compression:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...ringHangerDrop

Also, the stock spring hangers on the '83 are pretty flimsy, so you may want to consider new hangers at the least.