1939 ford shackles
 

Hi All,

I finally got the front spring shackle bushing out of the spring perch 1939 ford, does anyone have any suggestions on how to get a new one in other than hammering it? It’s all steel and by trying to hammer it in the end started the bend and the shackle is now damaged.


Much appreciated!

Jim

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

Jim,
They must be pressed in as they are designed with an interference fit.
Some guys grind the outer shell down to fit the perch easily. That defeats the purpose of installing new pins. These pins are responsible for providing the torsional twist required to bring the car back to level.

I have seen just recently a guy on the Bar that made a tool to press these in. Perhaps you can search that out?
Otherwise, KR Wilson made a tool specifically for this task. Perhaps someone close to you has one to lend?

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

I ream the perch and spring with a 3/4” reamer to be sure the hole is to size and also measure the cartridge with a micrometer. About .001” interference fit is all that will press in the perch in my experience. I machined a cupped tool to press on the body of the shackle cartridge. The spring is much easier to do than the perch.
Good luck.

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

This is a good link about the KR Wilson tool set for this job.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=240527

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

Pins were specified to be .003" - .0035" oversize.
With the proper tool, they press in very easily. I did a set about three weeks ago. Took only minutes each.

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

thanks guys for your helpful information much appreciated will let you know how i make out thanks again jim s.

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

Good info to know. Thank you!

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

Can always put pins in deep freezer prior to fitting. Some shrinkage gained will assist.
Phil NZ

Re: 1939 ford shackles
 

I chuck mine in a drill press and sand down until they will go a quarter way in then put never seize on them and drive in with a tool that is made for that. Never had one come loose that way.