Hey guys,

I'm in the process of extending the radius arms from a '79 bronco, in order to fit a full size HP D44 onto my '94 B4000, and have a few questions.

I am using 7/8" bolts to extend the arms, to utilize the stock bushing mount. Using 1-1/4" 3/16 wall DOM tube to sleeve the bolts. The rest of the arm will be boxed on both sides all the way up to the "C" ends.

Should i add another tube on top of the one i got? Or should I weld on something like 3/8" x 3/4" plate on top of the whole arm and extension?

Also, the weld at the end of the extension (where the bushing sits), is there a chance it will weaken the stud? Should I try to not put too much heat into it? Not do a complete weld?

Here are some pics to show you my progress so far. Any advice / pointers are welcome :)

 

So you are saying you want to add another "sleeve" onto of the DOM? Probably not necessary. 3/16 is pretty thick stuff so I'd think it'll hold up.

As for welding it, no, it won't weaken the part. If you are quenching the welds, the welds themselves won't be as strong if you let them air dry, but it shouldn't be an issue with a nice big thick part like that.

 

I was thinking to add a second sleeve mostly to overlap the point where the extension starts. Either that, or add a "gusset" on top of the arm.

Whats a post without paint pictures? Hope they make sense

P.S. also posted at 2 more ranger forums, but cannot post links :(

 

Seems overkill. Those arms are tough but its just lap that sleeve over the point where the bolt meets the arm and call it good. The full size guys dont beef up those arms any when they lift those trucks