I came across a lot of 3/4" x 3" mild steel strap and I was wondering if it would be strong enough to make some Dana 44 steering arms out of? I have enough to build probably 50 of them but it seems like most people use 1". I can't imagine the 3/4" bending but I certainly don't want to find out the hard way. What's everyone think?
Travis

I have built several sets of Toyota high steering arms out of 3/4" without a problem...

I don't think it will break but the hole may elongate where the tie rod or drag link connect if it's not a double shear application.

If you're using the GM cone washers, 3/4" won't be thick enough to ream the hole for the cone washer.

Might be OK for Heim joints in double shear.

But every stock knuckle I've seen, the TRE holes are in 1" thick, so less than this may not be the best for a good seat of the tapered stud of the TRE.

Oh well it never hurts to ask. If anyone has any ideas about what to do with a butt load of 3/4" strap let me know. Thanks
Travis

i used 3/4 to build the one for my front 60. it works fine for me. i also wheel with a guy who used the same and no problems there either.

Give it a shot. I don't think it would fail critically, only elongate the holes or something
Rob

After reading everyone's responces and thinking about it I can see where there wouldn't be enough meat for the tapered holes. I'll stare at a stock chevy arm to varify but since I don't have the tools to build them myself I'm not going to try unless I know they'll work. There are plenty of good d44 arms out there. I was just hoping I could have a machine shop crank out a shit load I could sell to finance getting my Scout done. The 3/4 is some beefy stuff. I guess I'll just have to build a bunch of really overkill shackle hangers or something.
Travis