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1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Early Eighties Bullnose Ford Truck

Front suspension swap

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Old Mar 12, 2008 | 11:15 AM
  #1  
brthevio's Avatar
brthevio
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From: El dorado, Arkansas
Front suspension swap

What needs to be done to swap the front suspension from an 86 to an 81 f150 2wd. I want to get rid of the kingpin setup and use the set up from under an 86. Is this possible without any cutting and welding?
 
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Old Mar 12, 2008 | 12:09 PM
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mudgepondexpress's Avatar
mudgepondexpress
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Joined: Feb 2005
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From: Spokane, WA
Yes it is! I swaped a 93-96 version in my 81 with just bolt in parts. The things I found in common were the rotors, sway bar (but not the links) and the strut rod bushings. I had to replace all the steering components (they were worn anyways) because they use different tie rod ends. On the 86 you are probably OK with the spindles/beams and probably Calipers/strut rods. You can find out by shopping for parts on line (ala NAPA Online) and seeing when the part numbers change (calipers/tie rods). You will most likely need the bolt for the rod/beam connection if you don't buy them as a unit...say hello to your Ford dealer...$20 each!

Kenny
 
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Old Mar 12, 2008 | 11:38 PM
  #3  
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brthevio
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From: El dorado, Arkansas
Thanks, I would much rather have the suspension from the 86 under there than the king pin set up. It seems to ride alot smoother and I have the parts just sittting on the other truck. I really appreciate knowing up front that it can be done. Thanks again.
 
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