My build requires creating a new way to mount the gas shocks in the rear of my '46 1/2 ton. I have lowered the truck 3" in the rear using standard lowering blocks. This change causes interference/lack of access for mounting wheels, as well as installing the shocks outward as the directions state. I am going to turn the shocks inward of the frame, thus the need for a new crossmember to mount them too.
I am wondering what materials some of you have used to build a crossmember. Type of steel, dimensions, square tube or DOM? I have an idea so please comment.
Using 2"x2"x1/8" square tube to create the crossmember, plating it at each end and bolting it to the chassis through the existing holes used for the original knee shocks. A gusset behind and under the tubing for support at each end. Align the tubing with the shock angle and weld. Add a mounting plate to the crossmember at each shock position and bolt the upper shock mount that comes with the kit to this plate. I have to measure more accurately but the shock should install at around 30 degrees.
"it's only old if you can't find a use for it; otherwise it's cool and i'll use it."
This is what I did on my '40. It is a tab welded to the top of the frame and the frame reinforced with a plate boxing in underneath. The shock just kisses the floorboard so it could have been a touch shorter. Seems to work OK.
Here is my '37, I used heavy wall 1 1/4" square tube welded to side plates at the frame rails. The shocks mount to 1/4" thick small tabs. 1/8" wall thick will needs some reinforcements, 3/16" or 1/4" would be better then you could use a smaller tube.
