These two pictures show how the tie rods impinge on the place where I would like to put my feet, which is right up to the tubes of the front axle. I think the shimmy is a part of the design of the steering system and the dampner was added to control that.
If the rack is close to the right dimension and close to the same width then the key is that both tie rods are the same length and as close as possible to the same pivot arc as the trailing arms. The closest possible to the top tube on the same plane as the tie rod connecting points on the spindles. It will also make it much easier to seal off the wheels from the passenger compartment.
I also checked and I can buy all of the parts to convert to disc brakes for about $235. I'd rather do that than even try to fix the drum brake system.
regards
Mech
