i scored a d30 front with a partial hi steer conversion already done to it. it has d44 flat top knuckles and one steering arm on the right side to locate the drag link above the leaf springs on my soa. i've installed it on my jeep cj7 already. the tie rod is still in the stock location and is very vulnerable to getting bashed in. my next step is to locate it above the springs. i've done quite a bit of research and i'm aware of most of the options. what i'm looking for is the cheapest, safe solution.

these as the options i'm considering:

1. have a steering arm made for the left side and use a y style one peice steering link like tri couny gear uses in their kit. the steering link seems like it will be really expensive to build though.

2. order or have new steering arms made for both sides to accept both links above the springs.

where the expense is going to come in is steering linkage. all the steering arms i've seen are made to accept larger rod ends than the stock ones i already have. it's probably a good idea to upgrade the rod ends(even though i've never had a problem with stock). is it a galactically stupid idea to have steering arms made to accept my stock steering linkage with enough meat left to drill or ream out larger if necessary to keep costs down? i've learned just about everything about my jeep through trial and error and don't mind trying different things to see how it will work. steering is just not an area i want to "try". i have a friend who custom fabbed his own steering setup. it turned out great but he failed to use a locking type nut on his rod end. steering link fell out at 50mph on a windy road. live and learn i guess. at least he lived.

i'm looking for personal testimomials, pricing, and phoenix area shops. i will probably consult R.E.D. unless someone knows of some other competent shops(preferrably N.W. valley). mail order is not out of the question though. i just like to do business face to face on custom applications because of the variables involed. i know there is a lot of info. on the subject and the posts may get long (like mine). i don't mind, the more info, the better. Scoutnut, if you read this, how is your steering configured and what did it cost? you seem to be really happy with it.

You can't go wrong with R.E.D.  He did an awesome job on my SOA w/ the crossover steering conversion.  He completely fabbed a new piece for the top end of the passenger side steering knuckle.  It's reinforced and is very strong.  He made me a much stronger link out of DOM tubing and stronger rod ends.  He then reinforced the pitman arm with a circular peice of steel with some of it cut out to slide around the area where it attaches to the output shaft of the steering gearbox.  He does a great job with fabrication and welding.

I just recently got a digital camera.  I'm still trying to figure out how to post pics on the web, but I'll go take some pics of my crossover steering and post them so you can see what he did instead of my poor description.

Phoenix 4 wheel supply on 30th st and washington is a good place too, but I'ld talk to Randy before going any where else. 

Scoutnut

Here are the pics of the cross over steering I told you I would take.  In the first one you can see where Randy fabbed a peice to raise the linkage above the springs then he strengthened it with a gusset.  In the next pic you can see how he strengthened the pitman arm (I think that's right) with a circular gusset/brace.

I hope these help give you some idea of the quality of work that R.E.D. provides to their customers.  The welding is some of the best as well.

Scoutnut