OK, next step for the front axle is to set caster angle, and mark the setscrew divots that will make it easier to assemble and disassemble with repeatability.
So to get to that point the axle is clamped in the holders, measured to be in the center, with the 4 bar parallel to the frame. After several measurements, moves and calculations I think I'm there.
Then the steering box mount and Watts link mount was centered between the axle holders and by some minor miracle, it all went back together like it was before.
I checked the range of motion, the axle stayed centered like it should with a Watts link that is working in the middle of its range.
The caster is set to 12 degrees... I mounted the spindles... I need to find or make some new copper or brass washers that we use as bearing surfaces.... the original caster we used was 36, and that is what the other tie rod mounts you see are set for. The ones to the rear will work at several angles but 12 is what they were built for.
Yep I won't get into the discussion of what caster is best... I personally like the way the 36 drove... it was like having stops for minimum steering... but it came with its own issues that you see in old flopper dragsters... so I'll go with 12, we had that for a couple of years and it was not a problem... the car was stable and drove well.