I think the answer to getting the idler and steering box correct is to duplicate the locations relative to the crossmember from stock.
Andereggen suggested creating a template. I'm thinking since I have the frame the crossmember is attached to and need to create spacers and brackets anyway, I'll use that '72 frame as first template, and then spacer, adding and cutting away as needed.
I've tried a couple of internet searches to find Joe Chainey and have not found a listing that matches what I know of him close enough to make a cold call. My short-term approach is to hope someone here knows him and can introduce me.
Its also possible I'll get impatient and just start calling people who are named Chainey as there seems to be at least half a dozen listings within 20 or 30 miles of McKenna and I bet one of them knows the guy I'm trying to reach, and its likely one of the listings includes the right phone number.
But I'd prefer to start with an email introduction from someone he knows rather than start out as a strange voice on the phone.
And another alternative is to load all the listings I've found in the GPS and go for a drive...
