'77 Knuckle/High Steer Question

[MoabB2]

New guy here, hoping some of you out there know about this.

I am under the impression that the 76-77 D44 knuckles are different than the pre 76 knuckles, due to the Disc Brakes. Does anyone have a picture of the difference?

Next question, is it possible to use the '77 knuckle to convert to high steer or is a different knuckle/brake assembly needed? I had read somewhere that the '77 knuckle could be machined flat to work.

Thanks!

 

[Gummi Bear]

Doing a TRO is certianly doable, it requires less backspacing on your wheels to clear however. I opted to use some 1-1/2" wheel spacers, it's been run HARD like that for a couple of seasons with no issue.


You CANNOT mill the EB knuckles for flat tops. You might be able to wangle some Waggy or Chevy knuckles for this.

Truth be told, I'd spend the money on some Dedenbear knuckles for that (~$250 per side), and know that they're up to the task, and won't fail at a critical moment on the trail.

 

[mr.n]

New guy here, hoping some of you out there know about this.

I am under the impression that the 76-77 D44 knuckles are different than the pre 76 knuckles, due to the Disc Brakes. Does anyone have a picture of the difference?

Next question, is it possible to use the '77 knuckle to convert to high steer or is a different knuckle/brake assembly needed? I had read somewhere that the '77 knuckle could be machined flat to work.

Thanks!

Please let me know where you read this.

I've a Picture on my web page with a EB knuckle being used for high steer.
I suggest you avoid this, there is not much meet on the knuckle. It was not meant for a steering arm.

Check my page, and the links. I'll be happy to answer any question.
The best answer if you want to keep 5 on 5.5" is to get Chevy/FSJ knuckles.

 

[MoabB2]

Please let me know where you read this.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Steering/Steering_Research/steeringresearch.htm

I linked to the page from your site originally.

 

[MoabB2]

So, it doesn't look like there is any way for me to keep my stock knuckles/disc brake assembly and run high steer. Right?

I bought the '77 axle because it has the discs already and I wouldn't have to do the disc conversion. Is TRO my best option?

 

[Gummi Bear]

How much lift do you have that you need high steer? Get too far out of wonk, and you're going to have bigger problems than clearance, you still have to keep the track bar parallel with the drag link.

If you're thinking you'll need it for clearance, you probably won't. The 76-77 knuckles with a TRO gets the tie rod up pretty darn high. Mine's only got a couple of scratches, certainly no hard hits.

High steer isn't necessary on an EB, it will only open a can of worms.




**If you're going full hydro, please disregard the previous statement.;D

 

[MoabB2]

It is actually going on a Bronco II. Similar to an EB, and I will have about 6" lift. My main concern was just getting it up out of the way to not hang it up on the rocks.

 

[Gummi Bear]

I gotcha.

Just the TRO will do a fine job. It's well above the axle centerline.

Maybe these pics will help.

 

[Madgyver]

Just another reason to post my pic.........;D

 

[MoabB2]

Thanks a lot guys. TRO it is.

By the way, that is a sweet pic!