Aleady searched with no real luck, posted in the "newbie" board, and didn't get information as soon as I NEEDED it. SO here goes;
Have a 66 FJ 40 frame, center arm pivot was shot, took it out as I have a pivot from a 74. It is very apparent that I NEED to fab something. What do I need to do? I know I have to box the frame, but what's a good idea for the frame crossmember part?Pics and information GREATLY appreciated. NOTE I have a factory PTO winch that I intend to use.
Thank you!

If you box the inside of the LH frame rail, you should have no problem installing the later center arm assembly...

For the crossmember, just drill two holes and run nuts in frm the backside. Do you have a donor frame to chop the box part out of the frame rail?

-Brett

That's kind of the problem. I scrapped out the 74 frame 2 yrs ago as it was stricken badly w/ cancer. Now I have to go by memory. The frame crossmember is at an angle on the 66 as opposed to being "square'. I have formulated a plan but, would like the opinions of more knowledgeable/experienced folk.
I'm considering creating a "right angle" and welding it to the face of the crossmember to create a squared corner. I'd use 3/16 or thicker and weld the lower bolt through prior to mounting/welding the piece to the frame. From there, I'd box the frame in. I do have some concerns about the geometry of the steering linkage. It looks OK but as well tempted to run it as high as possible to create more clearance for the pitman to clear the spring pack during compression.
Got any pics of yours?

Man don't bother retro fitting that steering. Take the opportunity to go to power steering. Use the scout power steering box or an FJ60 power steering box. If you are going to go to that much effort to fab something up make it an improvement. Check out ih8mud.com for examples of both the scout and fj60 setups. Both of these options will allow you to retain your PTO.

I agree with Ken, it seems like you are going through alot fo effort to save a antique system, going scout or FJ60 isn't too expensive but the benefits are huge. I can see saving the center-arm in a OEM restoration but if you are going to the extent of boxing/fabbing frame parts, you could do the same work and end up with the power steering.