1959 Apache How to find axle centerline?

[jeremywrags]

Hi All,

I have searched a bit and I have found a few articles but there seems to be different ways of doing this and some gloss over it, not sure if they assume we all know what we are doing?

So I have a stock 1959 Apache. I plan on installing an IFS, something like the TCI weld in kit. Regardless of which kit I go with they all say to find the axle centerline without showing exactly how to do it. Perhaps I am overlooking some detail.

I have also come across info about moving the axle so that it sits better in the wheel well, did it not sit right form the factory?

Anyway, can anyone tell me definitively how to locate the axle centerline on a stock 59 and weather or not I should position the new IFS someplace other than on the centerline?

Thanks

[G&R's57GMC]

With the chassis level use a plumb bob and let it hang down to the axle then mark that in the chassis with a chisel or hacksaw so it won't get lost as the chassis is sandblasted or stripped . Do both frame rails front and rear axle locations.

On the '55 - '57 you'll want to move the front axle center line forward 1" to center the tire in the opening .

This may also apply to '58 -'59 . Take a hard look at your truck .

[dwcsr]

If the axle is in the truck do as said above. If its out of the truck look for a 1/2 inch pilot hole just forward of the steering box in the top of the frame rail and measure back toward the cab a 1/2 inch. That's the center line of the axle.

Make sure your frame is square prior to doing a IFS swap or t will never look ok

[OrrieG]

Make sure your frame is square prior to doing a IFS swap or t will never look ok[/QUOTE]
Even if you are not doing a swap a good idea. Mine was 3/4" out of square, probably got tweaked off roading some time. Pulled it back to square with a come along. The riveted frames were designed to move a little.