If I want to convert and 81 F100 to the 83-86 front end for easier lowering (using the kits that are out there such as DJM) are there any chassis mods that are necessary or are the suspension/steering mounting points on the frame identical between 80-82 and 83-86?

Thanks

 

They both have i beams, no conversion necessary

 

Yes they bolt right in place. But make sure you get the whole beam with the brakes and everything. And you might find it has a different wheel lug pattern than yours, so you may need to do something about the rearend also since it won't match anymore.

 

thanks for the tips! This helps making it as easy as possible.

 

If new 83+ drop beams are used, will the 80-82 radius arms fit are do I need to find a set of 83+ radius arms?

 

I have never heard the radius arms coming up in any of the previous conversations about it, but I would imagine if you left the radius arms bolted to the beams when you bought them, the junkyard probably would not charge you much if any extra for them.

 

That's what I was thinking too. Thanks!

 

Change the Adelaide in the rear end to the new 5x5.5 if you currently have the 5x4.5

 

What is Adelaide?

 

LOL sorry, I'm posting from my phone, change the axel in the rear end.

 

I had a light bulb to turn on today. In my case, with my 81 I wanted to lower the truck for a more aggressive stance, but we all know I can't do that. Now today I parked it sitting downhill and realized I can get that same look by lifting the rear maybe only an inch. As I said I am looking for the stance, not necessarily the lower profile.

 

Oh SNAP!! The radius arm bushing isn't the easiest thing to remove, but it's a lot easier than trying to loosen that long bolt. And loosening the long bolt in the junkyard may be even more difficult as most won't let you use the hot wrench there. Take each side off and get them home. Then you can work with a friend, the hot wrench, and a cheater bar and make short work of it.

 

Thanks for the tips!