Started my LT build this weekend. Im running a 2 bushing/upper flange bearing setup. Ive got my bottom and middle bushing installed and the shaft turns freely. My question is how to align the flang bearing. When I turn the shaft the weight of the shaft is allowing it to sag at the upper end where I want to install the bearing. How do I get the shaft centered to line up the bearing?

Idea 1. turn a bushing where it is a slip fit, then weld the plate on and install the bearing. After the install remove the bushing.

Idea 2. Make the bolt holes on my mount plate slighlty enlarged and get everything welded up and turn the shaft hooked up to the motor to get it aligned.

Idea 3. Just had this while I was typing. Go ahead and put a half bushing in that is reamed out slightly loose, this will help align the shaft and also give the seals something to press against. Or could I just install the seals without the bushing and use them to align the shaft? I dont think they will go anywhere once installed in the shaft.

If im way off and someone has a better idea let me know. This is my first build.

Couple of starter pics. Only tacked together, ran out of argon

looks good so far I add a vertical support to mine from the base to the flat bar that runs up to the bach of the engine (helps keep things in line after welding) I would assemble the shaft pass it through the tube housing attach to the u joint check angle and make sure shaft housing is square to your u joint . once everything is dry fitted start taking dimension for your bracing and i would stagger the heat from the welding causes less heat distrortion Good luck

The way weve done it is take a bushing and put it in the top of the housing where your bearing will bolt up, and one in the bottom to center the shaft in the tube.. Let it center your shaft then slide on your bearing, mark your holes on your plate and remove. Drill out marked holes and test fit everything.

Well I ended up putting a bushing in the top to get everything lined up. Im doubled up as of now but if I have any heat problems I can remove the bushing. Ill start a seperate build thread and document my progress!