The A will not move

bobmc said:
Well the verdict is in!


We pulled the rear end today, removing the shackles using the spring spreader. The rear end / torque tube assembly moved back and down. The universal joint remained attached to the trans.
Now in order to explain what happened let me tell you how the universal joint is assembled. There is a yoke that attaches to the output shaft of the trans with a bolt/lock washer and special washer with a tab. Then there is the inner part the is sold as a repair for the universal join. Followed by the rear yoke that slides onto the driveshaft coming from the rear end. The rear yoke broke in two pieces. The brake was in such a manor that the two pieces could pass each other without touching.
Now we contacted two of the well known vendors and both informed us that the unit they sell is not in stock due to mfg. issues. We were able to locate one from another vendor who claims that he has no experience with any of his ujoints. We should have it in our hand by next week. Time will tell if it is going to fit. As a back up plan we have the option to acquire a good used one.


Thanks for all your help and support.


bob
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There was an issue a while back with U-joints on the market being made incorrectly. They probably all come from the same place. I suspect the one you ordered will be incorrect. The better suppliers, such as Bratton pulled them from sale. If the one that broke on you was from that incorrect batch it is probably the reason for the failure.


Your best bet is to find a used one that works. There are plenty around. I see them at swap meets all the time. A used one can usually be had for about $35.


Tom Endy
 
I hope your friend appreciates the fact that the car broke in his driveway. It's a good car that leaves you at least within reach of a cold one.
 
Bob, interesting thread with the final verdict. A few years ago I passed on a purchase of an A with your initial problem, good to hear it will be a reasonable fix.

Let us know how you make out with the available U-joints.
 
Now we contacted two of the well known vendors and both informed us that the unit they sell is not in stock due to mfg. issues. We were able to locate one from another vendor who claims that he has no experience with any of his ujoints. We should have it in our hand by next week. Time will tell if it is going to fit. As a back up plan we have the option to acquire a good used one.
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I had much the same problem sourcing U-joint parts. Dana-Spicer is the manufacturer and they do Model A type U-joints "only occasionally" and as market demands.

It much be the market doesn't demand too much or too often? Still D-S U-joints in various parts/arrangements still show in their engineering data.

I ultimately found my "mix & match" U-joint on a bottom shelf of a local Model A Vendor. "Where did you get this?" I asked seeing the 6 in and 10 spline out? "Oh I picked it up at a flea market somewhere."

As others have said - U-joints are out there. Your best bet may be Bert's.

Joe K
 
Seem to recall there was an issue with the splines on some of the repos. If you to ahead with the one you bought, make sure it fits the splines. If it does not slide on and off easy, don't force it, return it.
 
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