A replacement steering and suspension support cross member is configured to replace the original cross member in an automobile that, as originally designed, could only receive small block motors into its engine bay, so that a big block motor can be installed in the engine bay. The cross member has first and second end portions that are joined, longitudinally, by a central portion. The central portion is recessed from the front and top of the end portions. The assembly further includes upper and lower control arms at each end as well as shock supports. The cross member is configured to reside at a transverse position that is behind the position of the original cross member, while the spindle mounts and shock absorber mounts are offset forward to be on the original axle axis.