'39 front axle.......front & back??

John Mc

John Mc

Senior Member
Guys, I'm putting my front end back together. After cleaning, stripping and painting I cannot determine front or back. Both ends look identical to me . Am I wrong? :confused: If so how can I determine front & rear? Thanks.
 
John, The axle should be symetrical, ie, the same both ways. This means it can be installed either way around. However, I always tend to install the axle with the part number facing to the front. The part number should be on the right hand side between the spindle and perch bolt. Just my way...Brian
 
Excellent Brian, thank you very much. One more thing if I may. The shims (how many?) should be placed between the bottom of the axle and the top on the bearing?
 
Although the axle is symetrical and can go either way, if you want to retain any of the original allignment (bending of axle) it would probably be best to install it the way it was originally. JMO
 
HEY GUYS; I contend there is a front and back to the axle, ie the tapered pin that holds the king-pin, in place, goes in from the front, and the large tall acorn nut on the back side, its to stop the spindle from turning to fare...... thing about it.
John Mc; you remember that big acorn on the back side.....OLD...BILL
 
I second the front versus back.Read awhile ago about that and found the kingpin retainer only fit one way.Check it first before assembly.It would only go in one way on my '39 axle
 
You are indeed correct about the orientation of the pin; it does go in from the front of the axle, however, the hole and pin are parallel [it is the groove that is tapered], so can be fitted from either side of the axle. If you find it cannot fit one way around, it is no doubt because the torque that has been applied to the spring washer under the domed nut in the previous installation has deformed that end of the hole. My take on this issue, respectfully, Brian
 
Thanks for all the input. I will look it over VERY carefully before commencing with installation. Hopefully it will be with the part numbers in the front. Actually the thing is so clean and looks so nice, kinda like to show off those numbers!
 
There are no part numbers…..unless it’s a replacement axle (very rare)

Lock pin hole isn’t tapered…..C hair smaller on one side. (nut side)

The part of the lock pin that contacts the king is were the taper is.
 
296 V8, Correct me if I'm wrong, the part number on your axle reads ANSEN. Must be a replacement...[wink]
 
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