Front Crossmember Rebuild

I picked up a 64 CJ5 and it had some hacked up front crossmember to mount the steering bellcrank support and most likely to fit the 302. So here are some before and after pics. I plan on closing it in a little more as well.





I cut out the hack job above, drilled out the rivets to remove the bellcrank support with new crossmember in. I plan on moving the engine a little as well, and will be running an electric fan so there should be plenty of room.







Right now the bellcrank support is just bolted in loosely, most likely will upgrade the hardware and may even weld it to the support like factory.

 

looks better. grill support needed

 

With that kinda weight on the front end, u should consider a Saginaw swap?
New cross member looks good!

 

Thanks, I was thinking of that, but I don't think weight will be an issue, a ford 302 weighs about 450 lbs or so, and from what Im reading the Willys Hurricane 4 cylinder that I believe came in this originally is about 470ish suprisingly. Chevy v8 are pigs at well over 500 lbs, unless its an LS.

 

Ever drove one with Saginaw?
I've got it with a 134.(mines manual),(power box with line looped).
WORLD of difference?

 

Never drove one with the saginaw, my dad had a 64 with the 134 and I didn't think it was bad at all. So you didn't even add power steering, just looped the line back on itself? I like that idea.

 

Yes?
And then if u ever decide to go power, all u do is rig the pump!
I don't need power!
It's great like it is.
My 8 year old drives it.
It's a pretty detailed job!
Did mine when I did the frame off ,repair everything that's broke thing.
After the tub went on, I temp bolted the front end on,for mock up.