34 spindle shims?

Huffy34

Member
Can anyone tell me if there is suppose to be any shims between the lower section of the spindle and kingpin where it matches up with the bottom part of the axle? The replacement kit I'm using didn't have any if that be the case. From some of the pictures of different kits, it looks like there should be. My next question is, if there are suppose to be some shims does anyone sell these by themselves or what do I need to be looking for as far as thickness? Thanks for any advice. I know these are simple and probably dumb questions and except for the couple of people on here that I seem to irritate with my lack of "you ought to know this stuff" I'm very grateful for this helpful and great resource site. Thanks again.
 
There were no shims used originally nor is there a need for any as the weight of the car is carried by upper portion of the spindle, not by the lower portion. What was used originally was a thin round felt washer with a steel retainer washer for the felt.
 
It was a poor design.Ford change the spindle bearing to the bottom of the spindle starting in 37. The shims were used then. My 34s have them on top.
 
I don't know about 32or beyond, but the new bearings are slightly thinner,on a model A, so a shim or two is needed. The important thing, is to make sure the bearing spins without weight, but doesn't with the spindle bearing weight. A floor jack with very little pressure worked for me. Also the opposite is true of the felt washer. No weight no spin, with weight it will spin.
 
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