I'm waiting on some parts to start rebuilding my 1984 solid axle. I'm not sure if I need the knuckle ball gusset kit.

The truck will see mud and light trails. It will also be used as a DD. Would it just be a good idea seeing on how cheap the kit is?

Thanks.

 

If the axle is going to bend...it is going to bend at the knuckle ball.

 

Big fat tires and spacers etc put a lot more stress on that part.

If you have it apart anyway, why not?

 

That's what I was thinking. Now I need to cut the factory lower shock mounts off. I'm ordering these from wabfab because I don't like the lower shock mounting on marlin's part.

<edit> I just ordered them through Paypal. Can I use the dual transfer case crossmember with a single case? Do they make a single case crossmember like the one in the picture?


Thanks again.

 

YES you need them......also cap your steering stops or weld a nut inside

especially if you ever want to jump your truck....

I prefer the stock "double shear" design like trail gear over most of the other kits.

I would also recommend making your own kit. Here's one I made for a SAS I was working on. We used a cheapie shock mount and modified it for the top.

VERY IMPORTANT: make sure you install (or partially install) the knuckle and turn lock to lock to make sure the gussets clear. I know that Marlins kit requires quite a bit of trimming and its a pain in the ass to fix after you've welded it in all the way..

Use a small piece of round tube. This also allows the gusset to slide over a rock if it makes contact.

 

I will be capping the steering stops (they look too weak even for normal driving). I like the tube used as a gusset, someone should sell those (hint, hint). I'm having a friend at work do some of the welding, I could do everything else, except weld. I should look into taking a welding class.

 

yes

 

I've the Trail-Gear ones too:





Also put the Rock Rings



And backing plate eliminators:



David