Steering change

[48goat]

I was wondering has anyone tried flipping the steering linkage to the front side of the axle in order to use a newer style   steering box ?

[eh dubya]

You'd also reverse the Ackerman effect

 

[Andydodge]

Biggest problems would be trying to keep some sort of Ackerman in the steering arm/kingpin pivot area, also the chassis has an "arch" to allow the tierods clearance in full lock and with maximium bounce whereas the front of mopar chassis's from 39-54 don't really allow for much apart from the sway bar in this area.............not saying its not possible, anythings possible if you want it enough but changing from a rear steer to front steer without changing steering arms and associated bits would not be an easy job...........I have had an Austin 1800 front wheel drive rack & pinion which is still a rear steer rack in my Oz 1940 Dodge since the mid 70's and even with it narrowed 9" I still had to have custom made steering arms to restore a reasonable turning circle using the narrowed rack......another issue you may run into with a front steer arrangement of either a front steer rack or normal front steer box is routing the steering shaft to the rack or box as you would have a much longer shaft and also possibly the lower radiator to content with..............was thinking that using a front steer frame or chassis clip would possibly allow this design as everything would be factory designed and in theory its just the frame connection at the right spot, properly welded and braced and the steering shaft connection...........then its just reattaching the inner fenders, radiator surround and associated bits.............interesting idea tho'................andyd   

[48goat]

Hey thanks guys i was just thinking what if and this is certainly a good place to get a good honest answer to a question.