jaybuller, The Ford Dana 44 leaf sprung axle is 31 1/2" center to center. My Dodge frame up front is 33 1/2" center to center. I welded a 35 1/4" wide cross member from my frame so I could weld my spring hangers @ 31 1/2" center to center (also my stock cross member was in the way of my steering gear). Like rs182 said, "I drilled some holes, sleeved it and bolted it up." I used a 1999 Dodge ram steering box and because my truck has a body lift as well I have an adapter to go between the steering shaft and gear box. If I'm not mistaken you can bolt the shaft from your truck right to the 1999 steering gear box? I will include more pictures.
rs182, I used the 78 F250 leafs with the front end (which is a stiffer spring) and I haven't had any body roll issues. If you do have body roll then install a sway bar.

 

1978 Ford F250 Dana 44 w/ 78 Ford F250 leaf springs

 

If i can figure out how to be able to upload more pictures I will add them later.

 

Thats right about perfect, I would love 4x4 and a stronger spring set up but don't necessarily want massive monster truck.

 

Thanks , I was thinking the same thing when I built it, not huge, just a little strength and some moderate lift.

 

I have no issue with body roll to speak of. I have brackets I built to install my bar again but never got around to it.

I am Surprised that you dont have excess body roll, even with stiffer springs your narrow spring location makes for a substantially larger moment than a 36 or 38 spring center.

Hell if it works for you then great!

 

I own a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 2wd. I want run a solid axle and get rid of my ifs. Would i be able to get a 1997-2000 solid axle out those 1500s and rebuild the axle. Then get 8" lift coils or bigger to go with it. Just basically take most of the front end from the old 1500s. So I won' have to run adapters cause it' 5x5.5 already. Wat all would I have to get. And my goal is to be able to walk under my mirrors.