Lookin good. I see the axle has disc brakes?? Where did you snag it? Lots of GM parts interchange, and the mid 70s discs and rotors often almost bolt on chevy PU and Van axles.. Done a couple 60s Chevy Van axles that way..
The batwings weld on fine to forged axles. I've done the deal where the wing 'captures' the flat part--just for some more security--incase the weld was to fail--(never has).. Make the batwing axle cutout part was kinda sloted so I could slide it sideways onto the flats and it hooked the wing onto the axle--then weld it.
Use a low Hydrogen rod--its good for welding dis-similar metals together--Has a little flexability. 3/8 bat wing metal--turn the heat up--140+ then do a drop and drag welding style--stick the rod IN the puddle-- Slow N Hard.. Tag the batwing in first to get your correct spacing for the spring.. You can tag with a Mig--just burn through the tags with the arch..
Spray paint your welds white--for a couple years--you can see cracks easy if they form..
Fun stuf--Stick welding big iron is kinda Zen-- Smoke N fire and molten Iron--peacefull kinda.. Enjoy yourself and keep us informed..
PA41
