Started work on the front suspension in Ernest.
This is part of my process since I need to see things, the next step is to cut out the center plate that the balljoint will bolt to and Shock mount surface. Then make a jig, ill have the lcas ready to go by the end of the day if I keep at it
The tube is 1.25 .120 wall (might be thinner wall I forget), heim joints are 5/8", and the center plate will be 3/16". Most locosts go 1" tube on the lca’s but they also are known to bend, plus this is a long lca at nearly 18" with a “heavy” chassis.
The chassis has been built around fitting these turbos so the engine sits high and the side rails are 2" lower then most locosts. Along with this, the driverside engine mount is about 1" lower then the opposite side to get the engine as low as possible and give the turbo clearance so the exhaust won’t smack the chassis as the engine moves under load
The mounts will get reinforced with 3/4" tube and sheet metal.
The front suspension frame has been finalized, I’d like to fit more triangulation in but ease of maintance/drivetrain removal is a big factor.
Hacked up the transmission tunnel some more because the brace kept the engine from being removed easily, also it was too compromised with the none of the bars converging on the same point and plane.
Not excited about trying to cut 3/16 steel plate with the angle grinder, rip all my cutoff wheels