Dana 60 diff cover to tierod clearance

[broflow]

So I'm putting together my diff cover from DIY4X and I'm just wondering what have people done with their steering stops and the clearance between the tierod and an aftermarket diff cover. I've got the diff cover as close to the ring gear as I'm comfortable with and when the knuckles are at full left lock the tierod is real tight. Not near as tight when full right lock. I'd like to jump to a heavier/bigger (1-3/8") tie rod which will just make the clearance between cover and tie rod tighter. I don't really want to make my stops longer if anything shorter to get more steer. I'd attach a picture but I can't figure out how to. It's probably just my crappy computer.

 

[broflow]

picture of cover


Bear with me on this picture attachment hopefully this works

 

[broflow]

steering stop pict


These are just set at whatever factory was. How much can I crank them in before having to worry about binding axle joints?

 

[K85 Octane]

You are fine with what tierod you are running, but if you step up to the larger one, you will have to do what I did and run offset TREs. This allows full steering lock to lock.

http://www.wfoconcepts.com/pr/Offset-7-8-Tie-Rod-End-LH-thread-Left-side/3163/3204/3241/4142

 

[sweetk30]

looks like ruff stuffs come with weld in threaded bushings . http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/TREOFF.html

 

[K85 Octane]

looks like ruff stuffs come with weld in threaded bushings . http://www.ruffstuffspecialties.com/catalog/TREOFF.html

NOTE: Tube adapters not included

But this is where I got mine. I didn't need it for the ORD tierod, as they tap the holes. But if you pick up your own tubing, this sure beats trying to reverse tap that passenger side. I used these inserts for my draglink.

 

[K85 Octane]

here is a picture of my DRE and TRE. You can also see the weld in threaded insert. If you go weld in insert, thread the end in with some teflon tape to help keep the insert straight during burn in. The tape helps with remove so you don't bogger up the threads.

Also, if you go with the offset ends, keep an eye on them. I've only bent one, couple years back and haven't bent another. This is with hydro assist and rock rash, so maybe it's my fault.

 

[broflow]

Good info thanks guys. I think I'll have to go with that offset rod ends. What have you done with your steering stops? Just leave them alone or shorten them up to get more steer? or does that start getting you into trouble with binding axle joints? I'll be running a hydro assist on this also.

 

[K85 Octane]

I've got my stops pretty much at the stock location. I run the stops 1/16" short of landing, so what stops my steering is the hydronic ram. That debate has gone on before, whether to have to stops hit before the ram ends or just shy.

 

[Bowtie85]

Mine just clear's my 3/8" plate cover fwiw. Haven't touch stops or nothin.