Removing the front beam

So after getting the floor pans cleaned up and removing the body i've started on the front beam.  Since i want the car to be low and the wheels tucked into the wheel wells, some turning clearance will likely be sacrificed.  A common modification to aircooled VWs is to narrow the front beam.  The narrowed track width allows for more turning clearance between the wheel and the fender.  Thus i have removed the beam so i can start working on this.

here is the dirty front beam and chassis prior to removal

here is the front of the chassis sans beam

the entire front beam removed but fully assembled

work starting on the beam.  Got the sway bar and steering box removed.

the steering box needs a little tlc.  Oddly enough, it seems tight in the center but lose at the ends.  I may need to investigate further.