Forest Service Truck Coyote Swap

[miller]

I decided to shorten my upper links from 18" to 15" and run them inside the frame rail to the pumpkin. This allows me to get my 30 degree minimum angle. Ridetech offers the same kit with upper links @ 15". Also my buddy has a chevelle and those links are even shorter from the factory which is where this triangulated 4 link came from. I moved the lower links outside the frame rail so I can mount the shocks outside the frame rail. I am going to order the rear QA1 coilovers this week to verify I have adequate clearance between shock and frame. I also had to order longer axle tabs from welder series to mount the upper bars to the pumpkin due to how the passenger side sits higher up on the pumpkin due the the Ford 9" offset. Going a bit slow, but will be nice when it comes all together.

[miller]

Waiting on parts for the rear 4 link so I installed the volvo power steering pump assembly into the drivers wheel well. Started mocking up new radiator.

[hfdco4]

Looks like good progress there.

[miller]

Fit radiator with fan shroud and purchased some parts for cold air intake to make sure that has clearance. Still working on radiator hoses. I have the lower figured out, but need a 1.5 to 1.75 adapter for the upper. I did open up the core support for this radiator a couple more inches. I think being a six cylinder the opening was smaller than if it were a V8.

[miller]

Finally got the 4 link tac welded in place. I need to install the coil over upper mounts today. I worked with Naake suspension and ended up with the QA1 DD502 with 250LB springs.My rear ride height is @ 14.5" so that is the shock they recommended. Looking at the mounts I made its going to be more like 14 3/8 due to the bed to shock mount clearance. The bed sits off the frame about 7/8" in that spot where the upper mount is located.Once I get those done I plan on moving the axle through its travel to make sure nothing binds and then finish welding all the brackets. I think I am going to add a rear sway bar so probably get that measured up and ordered and then get a mustang gas tank coming. Not sure if I will put that in the frame rails or hang below with straps. Any suggestions?

[miller]

I removed squared tubing that I welded to the axle to hold at ride height and exercised the rear axle through full travel to check for binding. No binding at all everything smooth. Verified clearance of coil overs with spring installed. The upper brackets that I made for coil overs I am going to re do so they go all the way across the top part of the frame and will be welded. I was just not happy with those being they do hold up the rear of the truck! Made some gusset plates for front lower mount brackets. Ordered a rear sway bar kit from welder series so re welded axle at ride height for that install and to re do upper coil over mounts. Once rear sway bar is installed I will final weld everything.

[Fordkid68]

Looks great!!

[miller]

Thanks! Received my 45" Welder Series rear sway bar with 8" arms. I drilled a hole on each side of the frame to slide the outer tube through and will weld that to the frame. Sway bar is all mocked up. Drivers side arm is splined, passenger side arm is smooth to drill and pin.

[jurrien]

Love it! Keep the pictures coming

[miller]

I got sway bar all tac welded in place. I installed coil overs and springs and verified everything has clearance. I installed new upper coil over mounts.

[miller]

Tons of welding to do. Removed axle and started welding all tabs and mounts. Planning on getting axle cleaned, sanded and painted this week. I have new bearings and seals, a rebuilt center section with 3.50 gears and trac lock. I will also start cutting frame c notch.

[Fordkid68]

Cool!! You're making great progress. Those are beautiful welds!!
That's pretty heavy duty suspension, do you plan on racing it?

[miller]

Thanks. I have not though about racing it, but lots of burnouts yes!!!!

[Fordkid68]

Awesome!!! That's my plan too!! Although I would like to see what my truck can do in the 1/4 mile.
But yeah, mostly just lots of burnouts.

[hfdco4]

Wow, that is impressive!