Steering conversion

Does anyone have a link to a good write-up on the manual steering conversion on an old CJ2a? Since we're on the topic, I have a D30 from a CJ-5 that I have narrowed and plan to put in as well. Has anyone put one under a 2a? I'd like to know of any problems you ran into.

 

It's really not that hard to do the conversion. It was hard for me because the frame was 1 3/4" shorter than stock, but, in the Tech library here, it's basically the CJ5 conversion but with a manual box. Also, do an advance search within Flat fender only, it's been covered tons before.

 

this is a good link: http://www.earlycj5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17911 although most of the conversions there are for power steering, a lot of the same principles still apply.
FWIW i did mine last year and love it: YJ tilt column to borgeson u-joint to cut down cj shaft to stock cj u-joint to manual steering box. i used herm's drag link and tie rod on the stock Dana 25. http://www.hermtheoverdriveguy.com/id84.htm
i can post some pics if you would like.

 

Thanks for the replies. I didn't check the tech section, there's a lot of good info in there. How does the YJ column look, do you have any pictures? I'm trying to keep the stock look, but I already have a YJ column lying arond.

 

the D30 basically bolts in, might need to modify your spring plates for the larger ubolts.
I used the D30 tie rod and drag link assy that came with mine; no mods needed there.
My D30 was from 72-75 CJ5; I left it stock, which means it was 1.5 inches wider on each side. I don't know how much you "shortened" yours.
Since I already had Saginaw manual steering (which I replaced with power at the same time as the D30), the drag link length was fine.
I did not have to use angled shims under the spring packs for my application, as others state they have to do.
If your front springs are flat, may need to replace them or re-arc them for tie rod clearance.
Take your time on the steering conversion, as cutting and welding will be required. Think about your exhaust system and any future mods you might do in the future, so you don't have to redo the steering again.
sounds harder than it really is...
and, you will really enjoy the tighter turning radius as well.

 

Will a YJ steering box work? I only ask because I have one of those already.

 

i don't see why not as long as you can make a plate to mount it (thats if you don't have one already). You have manual YJ box, right?
I'll try to take some pics of my setup this weekend.