Front Axle Straightening

[Kohnke Rebabbitting]

Ok, I found my note book. I had forgoten about the degrees for the axle, as it has been about 8 years since I have done the last Model A running gear.

I have the Bear set of alignment tools and I found a picture that should explain how to use it.

Years ago when there were more Model A spec's easier to be had, the number I found was 7 degrees.

It is easy and accurate with the bear unit.

I use a chalk to get all 4 rods straight, and look at the tops of the rods.

I mount the Bear tool and check for 7 degrees on the perch rods, and then move to the king pin rods, and check for another 7 degrees there, they should be the same.

 

[buddridge]

They're so plentiful.....why bother? Buy another one.

 

[Purdy Swoft]

most are bent.

 

[Moodswing83]

Wow, lots of awesome responses. I think that I will get a couple prices and then evaluate against doing it myself.
I like the response on just getting another axle, and trust me, it is one of the options. But like most fools, what fun is it if you don't try to screw something up more!

Never even thought of check M.A.R.C., which I am a member.

Thank you for all of the responses, I'll let you know what I decided on.

Gene

 

[Kevin in NJ]

Any used axle is likely to be bent.

From years of just being driven you have road forces pushing rearward on the stub of the axle out board of the perch. Think of the billions of hits at speed hammering the metal rearwards. Then all the time the car hits curbs and such.

To make matters worse, any axle that has been heated will be MUCH softer and even more likely to bend with less force.

So if you do get another axle you have to know if it is within spec. Otherwise you may not be better off.

 

[WestCoast]

take it to s shop that works on pick up and trucks, they will straighten and align the axle on the car

 

[Brian T]

Any used axle is likely to be bent.

From years of just being driven you have road forces pushing rearward on the stub of the axle out board of the perch. Think of the billions of hits at speed hammering the metal rearwards. Then all the time the car hits curbs and such.

To make matters worse, any axle that has been heated will be MUCH softer and even more likely to bend with less force.

So if you do get another axle you have to know if it is within spec. Otherwise you may not be better off.

The first thing to do if looking for a used axle is to check the king pin holes for wear, if excessive this may cost to much to fix depending our much further straightening is required, ---- in addition look to see if the axle is bent forward, usually caused from towing at its center, not a big problem ---- if you have a good eye look from one end to the other if it appears close then you may have a easy fix axle beam.
Kevin, I used your tips to make up my alignment rods, the axle I found I believe had not been used, it was straight and the angles were 7 degrees at the king pins and perches, which yielded 2 degrees positive camber at the wheel.
Regards Brian, and thanks for the tips.