Thanks a lot for the good advice. I need to digest this information further, and do some measuring. I hadn't considered all of that, regarding the rockwells. I am trying to keep the bus running for now, and do the 4x4 conversion in stages.
I think I will take your advice, and replace the front springs with similar new ones. Not sure what to do about my sagging right rear leaf spring in the mean time.
Can you think of anything I can do to provide some temporary relief to the failing right rear spring? (a shackle, and airshock?) until I can get the front and rear rockwell axles, and make some accurate measurements? Otherwise I am just "guessing" how much rear lift I will need. I can't drive the bus as it is. The old girl sits lopsided, plus, some idiot had removed one of my upper right front shock mounts from the frame when I bought the bus. I need to either make one or find one before I can even safely drive this bus.
I saw your engine pictures. That is really cool. I did not know Detroit made a 4-53. I eventually need to upgrade my motor. I was thinking of trying to find a Duramax, but I don't know it would fit. An inline (straight) engine seems a better choice. a 5.9 Cummins would probably fit ok. The engine compartment is big, but not that big. A small block chevy looks like it would fit good. Not sure if a big block chevy would fit, considering the inner fenterwells in my 54.
Anyway, I can't wait to see your truck when it's finished, and how everything fits. Thanks again.
