wheelbase/drivetrain swap

[screwcity]

I've been collecting a load of parts for my driveline swap.....set of scout axles, a dana 20,may have scored 2 sm 465's, I've got a set of tj coils and I can't help but think of the possibilities that there are for my little jeep. I think I may do some trim work, and stretch the axles out a little bit and give her a little leg room.

the long way around to the real question.

what is the best all around wheel base?
the overall length is what like 128"? (that's from memory I measured it awhile ago)

with coils I could push it out that far, but it would e too much...

what sounds like a good round number...

If I don't decide to do the coil spring thing for a set of scout axles will I need to outboard the leaf springs? If so is it because the axles will create more leverage on the springs? If that is the case wouldn't stiffer springs help?

that's all for now I'm sure I'll stare at the jeep for a while and think about some things that I forgot..to mention...

Rio

[jason]

you realy cant go wrong with stretching it you will like the extra wheelbase, i would say 100'' wheelbase would be a good number maybe a little shorter or longer but i think this is a good round number.

my willys buggy i am building is going to in the 108'' to 112'' but i need it there to clear the rockwell top loaders. the TJ coils work great to, they will be a little stiff because they are rated for a heaver jeep but they will work good.

how are you planing to run the links, 3 link or 4, i like a 4 link but i am limited to a 3 because i ran out of room in the front, the rear i should ba able to get a trianglated-style 4 link. if you kept the frame orginal and did not stretch that and just did the wheel base then your approach angles would be insane, it would be nothing but tire out front and out back,no bumpers or frame to snag on good luck, jason.

[nickmil]

Sounds like an interesting project with lots of possibilities!
On the Scout axles, if you go leaf spring, you will have to outboard the springs in the front. Reason is axle width and pumpkin off set. If you don't outboard the springs then one side will be about the right width and stick out about the same as stock, the other side however will stick waaayyy out. On the rear, you don't have to out board the springs. Some do for stability, some leave them under the frame for more flex.
Nickmil.

[Ghetto Fab.]

I aggree, 100" is about ideal. It all depends on the wheeling you do and the tire size you are gonna run. The bigger the tire the longer you can go. If you do a lot of ledge climbs then longer is usaully better. I built my 75 cj5 with a spring over and 4 link rear but the stockish wheel base and I hated wheeling it. So last spring I pushed the rear axle back 9-10" and it made a world of difference. Driveshaft angles are a lot better now too. I'd like to link the front and push it forward 3" or so for a better approach angle. I'd say shoot for 100-105 and you'd be good.

Kevo