Is a custom front trans crossmember necessary with doubler

[14-Bolt]

Have an 82 blazer, getting all my parts together for doubler. I have a 4" lift with 35's now. But installing my new springs and flip when I get done with doubler. I have a stock tranny crossmember thats under np203 mount and putting another x-member under the adapter. Will I have issues with my tranny x-member clearance for front driveline. Anyone that has a doubler please give input, ive read the sites and forums, but I want real feedback.

 

[nvrenuf]

I'm running a 4spd so my set up is shorter than an auto but with my crossmember bolted to the OE 203 adapter (making it the front crossmember of the 2 possible spots) it's directly in the path of my driveshaft. I'm going to have to section out an area and make a bridge for the shaft to pass under.

 

[72blazerguy]

The stock cross member (from my 205) interfered with the drive line. You can modify the cross member to work, but it seemed easier to build a cross member that supported the entire doubler.

my .02

 

[76zimmer]

I would say regardless of the original trans/t/c used, you will have to modify the front crossmember or build one due to moving the front output back a minimum of 3-4".

 

[boz42]

I guess I am the odd ball. I am running two stock cross members. At the time i was running out of cash & had to do it on the cheap. I do have plans to build one from scratch to save some ground clearance.

The Basics: I had to clearance the front one but nothing major. Both crossmembers are 205 crossmembers. I also had to run short 3/4 inch tall spacers under the 203 adapter. The 203 adapter's legs are that much shorter than the 205's.

Here is a pic of the spacers & the modified crossmember.

I am thinking the 203 crossmember does not hang as low as the 205 crossmember. I am running about 4" of lift (56" front springs). The front axle is pushed forward aprox 4" so that helps keep the d-shaft from binding too. At full droop the d-shaft will not hit the crossmember.

 

[sweetk30]

if you want to trust hangine 200+ lbs of cast iron and gear on 1 crossmember and aluminum doubler kit go for it.

i wouldnt try it my self. i built a 203/205 doubler and that stuff is HEAVY i am going to run 2 crossmembers or full custom.

 

[bp71k5]

I run a single crossmember under the doubler adaptor plate. Thats the single best place for it since both transfer cases are supported by that adaptor. The ORD adaptor has holes setup to use the stock crossmember after it's moved back. I can't speak for other types though.

I have a second crossmember under the trans, but it's not really doing anything. It's more to hold the trans up I take the transfer cases out. An auto trans may be a little different since theres another adaptor between the trans and 203.

 

[obijuan]

I am gonna try running stock crossmembers 1/2 ton flat style. 205 clocked flat and a had flange and a 1350 cv. Hopefully that will push the shaft far enough forward.
I've got 2" 52s scooted forward all the way I can.

That's my plan anyways...

 

[blazinzuk]

My front crossmember is much like boz, my driveshaft just clears

 

[14-Bolt]

Definetly running two crossmembers, was going to run 2 stock ones. If I want to take out the tcase the trans is still supported. I like the 4xIron doubler crossmember, but to much of pain to support tranny and t case, when installing or removing either to do work. We'll see, I should prob take out the front member and modify it after I get doubler in. it will still be supported under np205. If I do it now I really want know where and how much I need to fab it to make it work. Ill let you guys know what I come up with.

 

[Cornfield creations]

Is there anyone who makes these in shop? Like Kert? I would think there would be a market for a good stout crossmember, or two for those who can't build or modify.