Topic: 1941 Ford rear end


Fast Eddie    -- 06-16-2018 @ 11:13 AM
  I have a broken axle on the passenger side,how does it come out of the housing,is it just a clip that holds it in or do I have to take the rear end apart?


kubes40    -- 06-16-2018 @ 11:21 AM
  You'll need to remove the axle assembly. That entails removing the axle housing(s) - depending on which side is broken. If the left side is broken, you can leave the right housing bolted to the differential. If the right side axle is broken, you'll need to remove both (L & R) axle housings.

You can do this with the differential remaining in the car. However, you'll need to separate the axle housings from the spring and only then remove the housing(s).
It really is not that difficult - more time consuming than anything else, especially if you are new to this.

I would strongly suggest you replace the seals at the end (inner) of the housing(s) as long as they are out. Also, measure the gasket thickness between the housing(s) and differential and replace them with gaskets of identical thickness.

Check bearings carefully and replace if you have even a tiny amount of doubt. Hey, you're in there - that's the time...

Mike "Kube" Kubarth


Fast Eddie    -- 06-16-2018 @ 11:31 AM
  Thanks a lot for your help, this is the first time I've worked on one of these and I'm kinda winging it




Fast Eddie    -- 06-16-2018 @ 11:35 AM
  Should I just replace the axle or replace it with a more modern rear end, what's your opinion on this matter?


TomO    -- 06-16-2018 @ 8:13 PM
  Just replace the axle. To install a more modern rear end would require making several modifications to the car.

Tom


CharlieStephens    -- 06-16-2018 @ 8:24 PM
  As you take things apart you will have to remove the hub/drum assemblies. Be sure to get the proper puller (KR Wilson or equivalent, not the one from the local auto parts store that attaches to the studs). Using the wrong puller will probably result in additional damage. Look up the torque spec in the archives for the axle nut. I think it is about 200 ft-lbs but check it. If it is not torqued enough it will result in a broken axle, maybe what happened to yours? As TomO said, just replace the axle.

Charlie Stephens

This message was edited by CharlieStephens on 6-16-18 @ 8:25 PM


TomO    -- 06-18-2018 @ 7:40 AM
  I forgot to mention that you should also check the axle housings for wear on the bottom side. The bearing uses the housing as an inner race. If it is worn excessively, the axle will flex and break. John Connelly makes a very good sleeve to repair the housings.

http://www.columbiatwospeedparts.com/columbia-2-speed-product.cfm

Tom


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