ed,
i just took the cover off the front of my truck and measured.
its confirmed, mine is also 17-1/2".
and for a guy who does not do chassis work for a living, you sure look like you know what your doing. looks like you have been doing it for all your life. very good, clean work.
if there is ever anything else you need info on, fell free to ask me, and i will help anyway i can.
take care, and please keep posting updated pics of your truck.
leonard
