To my friends in the community.
Many people here have been a big help and inspiration while I have gone thru this process. And I thank everyone. I want to take a moment to make a shout out to HemiDenny at HDK who has gone over and beyond trying to help me with the AJE suspension system I bought for this project with many emails and communications.
After alot of persistence and support by HemiDenny, I came to the decision to no longer fight that kit to be used in a way it was not meant and follow his suggestion in utilizing a more OEM style setup.
In the end, I have installed the OEM K-Member back in the car. With purchase of additional parts needed, I now have the following going into the car...
73 - 76 Steering link components including the V8 center link
73 - 76 Power Steering box
73 - 76 Lower Ball Joints
73 - 76 Steering Knuckles
73 - 76 Rotors with big bolt pattern
HDK Upper Control Arms
HDK Lower Control Arms
HDK Shock Hoops
HDK steering column shaft for use with Flaming River knuckle style coupler
QA1 Shocks and Coils
I need to purchase front single piston brake calipers and other brake components. I will also be picking up a Ford8.8 (3.73 with limited slip) and having the long side narrowed ~3in to utilize the shorter axle shaft on both sides so it fits under the car. That will get me a rear end with large drum brakes and a easy bolt-in upgrade option to disk brakes in the rear of the car with a big bolt pattern matching the mopar fronts. May Mother Mopar forgive me for using a ford axle in my car... lol At least the engine will be a Chrysler Era.
Once the car is back on the ground, I will start looking at what needs to be done to fit the Jeep 4.0L in the car. Have to look at whether to modify the oil pan, notch the K-Member, or both. I am also wandering about considering notching the firewall 2 inch deep to allow the engine to sit back a bit further. More to follow on that.
The big thing I care about is avoiding the need for a fiberglass pro-stock hood with a full length cowl induction scoop to fit the engine under.
This project had not stopped. It was just stalled a while during which I had to do some thinking and make some choices. I will be moving forward with more activity on it in the coming months. The suspension parts are being shipped now, I plan on having a update on this thread in the next month after getting the front end on the ground. Pictures to come at that time.
Again, "Thank You" everyone, and a big "Thank You" to hemidenny