I am using the $12.73 Ford shock towers. My axle is about 2.5" forward from IFS stock I think (so it might be a different arrangement from yours, as a solid axle stocker), and 3/4" forward of where it was when I welded the shock towers. Works fine. I think you want your axle where it is if at all possible, its really really nice to have that much fender clearance. How much interference do you have with your pitman arm/tie rod?

I really like the FROR pitman. In fact, my rig was the prototype when I ran into the same problem. Mike, Brian and I put our heads together on it and Mike suggested it. Its biggest selling points are:

-only slightly slower steering from stock. I like it better than stock, like Brian M., I think it adds a tad bit of safety. However, any slower and I think you might run into the limits of the steering box.

-the biggest gain is from the altered drag link end angle. This adds up more than you think. The angle of the TRE on the stock pitman sends it smack into the tie rod. Change that angle, and you pick up far more than the 1/4" shorter pitman would make you think.

-The Toyota steel is highest quality, in Brian's opinion (he machined mine, and says it cuts like butter, extremely consistent).

You are certainly welcome to come over and gander my setup, and bring yours by as well. I have short ramps we can play with, and a dirt pile. PM me or email at [email]bmorgan@4x4wire.com.[/email] Don't want to see you get discouraged, manguy.