Cliff- I've actually thought of the trailer axle/spindle idea. There's no manufactures that guarantee their hubs for steer axle use. Secondly, the weld on spindle idea. The knuckle actually narrows down behind the stock spindle, it doesn't leave alot of meat on the bone for welding.
Timken actually has a couple tapered bearings that are 1.5" ID and 3.15 OD that will fit the OEM hub. They require the use of a bushing for the seal to ride on though.
As far as the outer goes, Timken only has bearings that are slighty smaller than the original. The spindle would need turned down and new threads cut for the nut.
Spindles:
http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/w...&_suid=13748878880650470017803089918 http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/whitedog76/media/P1020357.jpg.html?sort=6&o=45
