changing to factory alloys on pre 2000 trucks

[D. Showan]

I've been considering doing what some have done- Install factory alloys on my older than 2000 year truck. In doing searches to see what has already been discussed on the subject here, I found quite a few threads with lots of good information.



Turning the rear drums to remove about 3/16" from the outside doesn't scare me.



Grinding a little material from the end of a steering knuckle makes me really hesitate.



But I know I must draw the line at cutting a notch in the tie rod to make enough clearance as someone described (thats nuts)



I havent seen this mentioned so I thought I'd throw it out and see what everyone thought : What about putting a 1/4" wheel spacer behind each wheel to move them all out slightly. It would probably help eliminate the interference problems in the front and it would also get the offset a little closer to original. I don't know if the studs are long enough to do this or if it would help.



What do you all think???

 

[Bob4x4]

Contact Mr Bob from frazier park(mrbobsdistributing.com) he has done this on his truck.



Bob

 

[D. Showan]

Thanks Bob4X4, I called Mr. Bob. He said he used 1/4" spacers all around. In the back he still had to remove some material from the drums- he thought about 1/8". In the front as he remembered it he had to round the end of the steering knuckle just a little bit, didn't have to touch the tie rod as he recalled. He said he still had complete engagement on the lugs.



I would sure like to hear from others that have tried to or actually switched to alloys. Would the spacers have helped?