[inspectorudy]

I got the ram and a whole box of hard lines today from Rich at Patton's and started my testing assembly of all of the parts. The ram went on just like the book shows however when I turn the wheel to the left it hits the ram before it runs out of turning room. I did not have the drag link on so maybe that will help. The ram lines hooked up without any issues but that's where the fun ended. Rich sent me a long line that will fit from the tranny output port (pressure) to the #9 input port on the steering valve but the original 90 degree turn from the tranny is too far out on the new line and hits the drive shaft flex joint. Is there a way to cut the line and re-flare it with the end fitting still on the line? I can slide it down to where the line bends but I don't think there will be enough line to get the flare tool on. The line from the valve aux port to the hyd raise/lower valve is pretty simple and should not be a problem. The mother of all line problems is going to be the return lines that all come together and then back to the tranny. Chip, who sold me the front 1862 axle said that he used brake lines and flared them himself. I haven't been able to find anyone in my area that sells the end fittings. Do any of you know a source for the 3/8 fittings? In the pictures below you can see the line with the 90 degree bend next to the OEM line and where I have straightened the new one some. If I did get the new line cut and flared how would I put the 90 degree bend back in the line so close to the fitting?The next pic is the ram hitting the left front wheel. Then the box of lines that Rich sent to help me out and finally the steering column that I had to add about 10 inches to.