Still haven't given up. I will out stubborn this thing yet.
I've been working a lot of hours for harvest, but have had a little time to get a few things done.
I did get the subframe fitted and bolted in with full adjustment as I had originally planned. I just needed Brian to kick me in the butt over it when I had reached saturation level on disgust.
Got the other lower arm modified to bolt the shock/strut near the ball joint.
Changed the strut over to accept the spring seat and lower heim joint.
Reassembled everything and dropped the car back on to it own springs. Finally it's sitting back on the ground without the use of jack stands!
I also installed the steering rack to ensure that it still fit. It did and the bump steer angles look a lot better than they did.
Fitted the strut/shock tops and got them welded in. The hood even shuts! That wasn't guaranteed, as the top of the shock adjusters was going to be close. I have clearance, not much clearance, but clearance nonetheless.
shock tops by
GySgtFrank, on Flickr
hood closed by
GySgtFrank, on Flickr
I have to work out something to lock the tops down a little better. I'm leery that it may come loose with only three bolts holding them, even though this was how the kit was set up. I did up the bolts from 5/16" to 1/2", but would be more comfortable if I can get at least two or three more bolts holding them.
It's getting there ... slowly ... but getting there.