Spindle Wear

[Steve_S]

Is this something I should be afraid of, or am I ok to continue driving on this spindle? I haven't looked at the other side yet but I doubt it's any better.

 

[John Otis]

That looks fine to me. Bearing surfaces and threads look good.

 

[Lee Crenshaw]

Steve, I believe the spindle was machined that way. The bearing rides on the race that is actually the nut. The nut rides on the threads not further inward as you may suspect. I think you're good to go.
Lee

 

[Steve_S]

Thanks gents, I'm used to more modern stuff (40's - 60's) where a spindle like this would predict certain disaster. The edges near the inside of the spindle are very sharp, not something I would expect to see on a component like a spindle. Could it be wear of some sort or would they actually leave multiple hard edges like that? Should I radius them? Or should I just stop talking now and put it back together?

 

[tmodelman]

Steve

I have used worst. You don't need to radius the area, just run as it. Will be ok. If those sharp edges are concern, just file them down a bit.

What caused that is sometime ago a wheel hub rubbed on that area, either was run with real loose or broken outer wheel bearing, or maybe run without a bearing to limp back to the house, anyone's guess.

There can be wear like that on Model T spindles that were retrofitted with Model A front taper wheel bearings.

The Model A will fit the cone, but...the Model A bearing is not threaded. So some used them if the correct left or right Model T bearing wasn't around. It has smooth bore and will ride upon the threads of a T spindle.

Just use a new taper outer threaded bearing with a new cone in the hub, the T lug washer, and spindle nut (lefts & rights needed for bearing and nut) with cotter and that spindle will last another 80 years!

Pic: Model T threaded bearing, on right Model A with smooth bore.

 

[redmodelt]

I was thinking the A outer bearing idea also. Might have had an A front hub on it at one time. They can be made to fit by turning down the spindle some. The threaded part will stick out too far, but if you don't use a hub cap your ok.

 

[Steve_S]

Thanks guys, that all makes sense!

 

[BashawT]

Another old post answered my question!

 

[Layden B]

Spindles are forgings and as such were not perfectly shaped before machining. Yours is as stated above- just as it came from the factory! No worry with it but a good precaution on your part to ask.