Axle conversions involve changing the location of springs in the axle housing to alter the ride height or replace a weak independent front suspension with a stronger straight axle. Proper measurements, leveling, and chassis preparation are crucial for a successful conversion, as well as having certified welding professionals complete all finish welds.
The most common axle conversion on a vehicle involves changing the location of the springs in the axle housing. Tips for ensuring the axle stays straight in the chassis run the gamut, from taking precise measurements to completing the axle conversion before removing the old axle mounts. These tips apply equally to the type of axle conversion that replaces an independent front suspension with a straight or live axle. Other tips to help complete any shaft alteration successfully involve having all welds completed by a certified welding professional. Any inferior welding could result in catastrophic failure of the conversion, and the resulting shock could prove fatal.
There are a number of reasons why a person might choose to have a axle conversion done on a vehicle. The two most common reasons behind an axle conversion are to alter the ride height of the vehicle, either higher or lower, through the use of a spring tipping kit, commonly known as a spring over or under axle conversion. . The second reason is to eliminate a weak independent front suspension on a four wheel drive truck with a stronger straight or solid axle. A third reason for conversion is to replicate an earlier suspension style on a period-correct vehicle build or restoration.
There are several things to do before completing the first step in any axle conversion. Taking detailed measurements of the vehicle’s ride height, wheelbase, and track are the most critical steps in ensuring the vehicle’s drivability once the conversion has been completed. However, the first step in the conversion process is to level the vehicle. Unless the vehicle is level, any resulting measurements will be skewed and will not reflect the actual required measurements. Small steel washers and folded sheet metal can be used to create thin shims to precisely level a vehicle when small incremental changes in vehicle height are required.
Proper chassis preparation is also crucial to a successful axle conversion and proper penetration of any resulting welds into the new components. By grinding away all traces of undercoating, paint and rust, the solder can reliably penetrate and join the metal, creating a solid weld. Having a certified welding professional complete all finish welds will increase the chances of having a safe suspension when the axle conversion is complete. Perhaps the best advice for anyone wanting to do this type of conversion is to talk to someone who has previously completed a similar conversion and discuss any difficult and unforeseen issues.
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