I beam suspension question
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: Vernon NJ
I beam suspension question
Hey everyone. Im looking to convert my current twin ibeam front end into a single solid beam front end. Im doing some custom work, putting a 12v cummins motor into my truck. The problem with the twin ibeam setup, is that massive crossmember under the engine, and how close the ibeams come to the bottom of the frame. So my plan is, use a single ibeam, cut that large cross member out, and make a new one out of some 2x4" square tubing. My question is, is there an ibeam i can use that will work with the twin ibean radius arms, and be able to use the same spring/shock location? Even if it comes down to using a drop axle, are there any companies that make one? Also, is there a retailer that sells the spindles/knuckles that i need? Thanks a bunch for the advise, very much appreciated.
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: Vernon NJ
Thanks, after looking around, i think i will go a different route. Im thinking the front ibeam out of a 48-64', making my own leaf spring shackle/mounts on the frame. I just need to know which year ibeam kingpin to kingpin measurement is the same or real clsoe to the same as the twin ibeam in my 65'.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,060
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From: Glendale Arizona
No ford I beam is as wide as the twin I.
And a F100/250 will not support the BT12. You will need to go to a F350 axle and springs to maintain the weight and it will be similar in width to your rear axle. I know of no conversion to allow the 350 straight axle to be converted to eight lug verses the six lug it has.
Garbz
And a F100/250 will not support the BT12. You will need to go to a F350 axle and springs to maintain the weight and it will be similar in width to your rear axle. I know of no conversion to allow the 350 straight axle to be converted to eight lug verses the six lug it has.
Garbz
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Junior User
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: Vernon NJ
Ok, thanks for the replies! So my understanding, i would need a 61-66 f350 ibeam. Is there a downside to having 6 lug instead of 8?
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Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Douglas,AZ
I'm going the same route with my 65 minus the cummin i just took off everything that has to do with twin beams and I'm just gonna measure and put the perches off a 64 f100 chassis and it should work.
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From: Watertown
Not sure where you are going for a stance, but a 4x4 axle would be an option. Look at the schematics on LMC or NPD web sites and see what would be needed. I don't know if those models have the crossmember in place or not.
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Junior User
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From: Vernon NJ
Having different amount of lugs front to rear wont really bother me, as the whole truck is a restomod and will a oddball lol. Could even put these on the rear to match the front 6 lug. 5 lug to 6 lug wheel adapter or wheel spacer
I was looking at a dana 60 or other front axle, but i would like to keep the truck 2wd, as it will be a street truck, wont be doing any wheeling with it. Thats my whole dilemma, a stronger front 2wd system.
Anyone by chance know the measurement from kingpin to kingpin on the 61-66 f350 axle? I just roughly measured the twin ibeam on my truck, 57-58" or so. According to the S.V. catelogue, their 48-52 f100 drop axle is 50.5" and 53-56 is 54"
I was looking at a dana 60 or other front axle, but i would like to keep the truck 2wd, as it will be a street truck, wont be doing any wheeling with it. Thats my whole dilemma, a stronger front 2wd system.
Anyone by chance know the measurement from kingpin to kingpin on the 61-66 f350 axle? I just roughly measured the twin ibeam on my truck, 57-58" or so. According to the S.V. catelogue, their 48-52 f100 drop axle is 50.5" and 53-56 is 54"
Posting Guru
Joined: Nov 2008
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From: Santa Monica, CA
Having different amount of lugs front to rear wont really bother me, as the whole truck is a restomod and will a oddball lol. Could even put these on the rear to match the front 6 lug. 5 lug to 6 lug wheel adapter or wheel spacer
That will definitely be different that the 5-to-6 lug adapters you're thinking of.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Oct 2005
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From: Mddl A MexCans
Drop axle
I dont know enough about what your trying to do, suspension wise etc.. But i pulled a drop axle from an early 60's econoline van E250, it measures 54" from king pin centers. Had HUGE f'n drums on the thing that I'd swear were 5 lug but cant recall now..CRS at this age. I left those in the yard as the plan is to get or make disc setup for it down the road. Rat rod something.. 