Stamped vs. Forged I Beams

[bilbo]

I'm going to be reworking the front end of my truck. It is the early 83 (built in March 82) with stamped I-beams. The replacement bushings I've seen say they are for forged beams only. Is there anything that will work with the stamped beams? If not, are the forged beams from late 83 or other any other years a direct replacement?

 

[adsm08]

I think all the 2wd beams from 83-97 will bolt in as a more or less direct replacement.

Where abouts are you? I have a set of 87 beams.

 

[bilbo]

I am in NE North Dakota. Thanks for the offer but I think shipping would suck to get them here! There is a junkyard a couple miles from my house that I'm going to swing by and see what they have; after I figure out what I'm looking for.

 

[bilbo]

Ok, I think I've located a set of forged beams. Before i go ahead with them, are the stamped ones completely un-serviceable or can I get bushings for those?

 

[AllanD]

If you are going to replace the 82 sheet metal beams on a 1982 with later beams I'd recommend getting your replacement beams off of a 1995-97 Ranger.

This will gain you the superior two-piston brake calipers...

 

[bilbo]

Wouldn't this require purchasing more parts? The knuckle, hub, etc or would the better caliper bolt to my knuckle? I was hoping for something I could drop in without sinking a bunch of money into it.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Wouldn't this require purchasing more parts? The knuckle, hub, etc or would the better caliper bolt to my knuckle? I was hoping for something I could drop in without sinking a bunch of money into it.

Knuckle, rotor, caliper/bracket and pads.

IMO just stay as close to your year as possible when hunting for forged beams. If you are happy with the brakes (and my slide pin brakes have given me no problems) just stay with them if the knuckles swap (I have no 2wd experience).

I got the axle out of a '95 already pulled for cheap is why I am going that direction... but rebuilding it isn't for the faint of heart (or checkbook)

 

[PlumCrazy]

Im interested in your 82 stamped beams if you want to sell them...

 

[bilbo]

Ok, I'll let you know if I take them out.