Has Anyone Modified Their TC Spindle Gussets for Clearance?

Has anyone ground down or modified their Total Chaos spindle gussets to clear their tires? I just installed a set, and while my (aftermarket, already offset) rims clear the gussets by about 1/4", the bead protectors on my Duratracs rub pretty bad. I need like 1/4" more of clearance, and I'm not keen on spacing them out another 1.5" per side when I already have offset rims. I'm thinking of either putting the original spindles back on (I bought a set already welded up so I still have my unmodified originals) or grinding down the gussets where they rub and maybe welding some scrap in to fill the notch.

Has anyone here modified their gussets for clearance? I'm starting to wonder if the gussets are worth the trouble...I could sell the gusseted spindles for a few hundred at least, but probably not if I start chopping into them. I already had to grind down the castle nuts on a belt sander to get the cotter pins in, I'm kinda loosing my patience here. Then again, reinstalling the original spindles is probably about as much work as modifying the ones that are now installed but rub the tires.

 

To answer your question, no, I haven’t seen anyone modify their gussets. Why do you say you need to space out each side 1.5”? Smallest bolt on spacer I know of is 0.75” and if you want to go smaller, you can get longer wheel studs and a slip on spacer (I have a 1/2” on my rear axle). Just something to consider.

Also as an FYI, I’ve sold a pair of gusseted spindles for $430 shipped.

 

Hot dang! I bought mine locally, maybe I should just flip them.

I was looking at Spidertrax, I guess they’re 1.25”. If I go with spacers I want something tough and proven. I’m not risking a broken spacer 20 miles down a dirt trail in Moab, or worse, one that finally gives way on the freeway. I hadn’t looked into the super thin ones that don’t have their own studs, I had always been told they’re dangerous and not street legal. Maybe they’re not that bad?

 

If done properly, they’re fine. Meaning quality aluminum from a reputable manufacturer, longer studs for proper thread engagement and hub centric. Bora is an American company and makes their product in-house and it’s great quality. Them and spidertrax are the only ones I trust when it comes to spacers. FWIW I am not nice to my truck and have ran both bolt on and slip on bora spacers with no issues.

*random pic of my truck in some attempt to add validity to my statement that I wheel*

 

I’m realizing now I never pasted a link to the thread.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-properly-do-slip-on-wheel-spacers.616426/

 

I never ground them down, but this is a good alternative if you need a hair more clearance without the bolt on spacers

 

I like these a lot.

 

I have 1/2” on my rear axle and really like them.

 

I saw that.