Another build thread? Yep, my track-style T

[J. Robinson]

Now that the spring assemblies are ready, the next step is to fabricate the necessary gussets needed to install them. First I removed the shocks and propped the rest of the assemblies in place. (I had to remove the shocks because gas-filled units will not stay compressed. ) With the springs, adjusters, & plates propped in place, I was able to determine the angle at which the top plates needed to be welded. I clamped the plates in their approximate positions with vise-grips. Next, I used a 4 ft. carpenter's level to check level on the frame and then checked level on the tips of the plates to assure they were even. Then I used the tape measure to make sure they were sticking out the same distance from the mounting tubes. I had to adjust them a couple of times and re-check with tape & level to get everything right. Once I was satisfied they are as identical as I can make them, I welded the top plates to the tubes in 3 places each so they won't move. (I will weld them solid later.)

With the top plates are in place so they won't move, I propped the springs and bottom plates in place again so I could make patterns for the gussets.