40 Ford drop axle

Sid

Sid

Well-known member
I am thinking about sending my axle to Oakie Joe to have dropped. I dont want to go 4''. I am figuring about 3'' to 3 1/4''. Just not a fan of the fender lip even with the spindle. S the question is what are you guys doing about steering arms? I have heard 40 Ford arms are a little too short to heat and bend. I prefer to use the stock tie rod ends as opposed to drop thru bolt. Where are you folks getting your arms and any part numbers would help.
 
The actual drop is not 4 extra inches on a 4” dropped axle. Only about 2 to 2.5. Any hot rodder worth their salt can drop the stock steering arms that much. You could also taper the tie rod holes half way from the other direction if you want to flip the tie rod over for needed clearance.

You might want to read up on who has the best reputation for good work before sending off your axle. And that’s all I’m gonna say about that.
 
If you don't care to or are unable to rework the stock steering arms; the other axle guy can drop your axle and rework your spindle arms to match.
 
Thanks for posting that dropped axle video. Sid and his team sure are masters of their craft. Had no idea dropping was such an art combined with skill.
 
Send your spindles with the axle when you have it dropped. They should be able to do both.
 
I'm only going to drop about 1" from stock. I have heat and bent steering arms on model A's and 32/36 arms. I've used Oakie Joe in the past and had him drill axles. Did a good job. I've seen new dropped steering arms. Just wondered if it is a better way to go. I was figuring buying his core.
 
What size tires are you folks generally using with your dropped axles? are you stretching the axle or are you guys letting the axle suck in? I'm running brake drums as opposed to disc.
 

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Thank you.. I was thinking the same thing. Right now it is 26 1/2" from ground to bottom of fender lip.205/75/15 tires on 5" wide rims. 1" more then stock might work. Putting tire just a tad above fender lip.
 
My 4 in. dropped axle is 3/4 in narrower than stock for better fender clearance. However, that increases the turning radius.
 

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Thanks 19Fordy.. What size tire are you running in front? I may need to go down 1 size.
 
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