front spring shakle
 

i am in the process of reasembling my 46 front axle.i did a search but could not find a way to install the top shackle pin to the the radius bar.i did clean the hole with a brake cylinder hone to help insert the new shackle pin but still to tight.i did not want to drive it in until i know if this is the proper way.i have thoughts of freezing the pin in dry ice or freezer to shrink the pin with hopes of it sliding right in.i did purchase new shackles,bushings and pins. any suggestions are welcome.thanks again

Re: front spring shakle
 

They are notoriously difficult to get in. The repro parts are not as well made as the old ones and can sometimes mushroom the outer tube while fitting. If you can make up some carefully shaped bushings to drive them in that would help.

Many people use street rod type bushings if originality is not a concern. They are much easier to fit.

Re: front spring shakle
 

They are designed to be pressed in with a special tool.To much of a pain for me so went with aftermarket urethane bushings and shackle kit.

Re: front spring shakle
 

I bought the driver tool, put the pins outside at -25, heated the springs with a heat gun, and still ended up damaging them. Took me 2-1/2 sets to get them in the front spring & perches.
When I did the rear, I went to the urethane style, so easy :). I drilled the pins and used castellated nuts and cotter pins so it doesn’t look too out of place.

Re: front spring shakle
 

so you guys feel its best to go aftermarket ??

Re: front spring shakle
 

There are some NORS bushings available that are not press in. I have a set that I’m going to use, I’ll see if I can post a picture and part number for them and maybe you could find one Similar.

Re: front spring shakle
 

Or remove it and press it in. Tool could be made or bought as mentioned. Much like a gear puller in reverse.

Re: front spring shakle
 

How did you get those old bushings out of the axle end? Maybe some heat? Seems like you need to cut the back stud off first to allow room to cross member to get it out. Working on a 40.

Re: front spring shakle
 

I use a 40 yr old import 1/2 " ,3/8" drive deep socket and hammer it out with that.I know its a cobbler backyard method but has always worked for me.Oh yes grip the socket with pliers so you don't hit your fingers.

Re: front spring shakle
 

If I understand the pin you are working with, it is the one that goes in the "front spring perch", and page 181 of the green bible lists it as "P/N 51A 5464 3.55" long x .75 dia., not drilled for cotter pin". According to the book, this pin is common to most vehicles from '35 to '48.

Re: front spring shakle
 

It is drilled for a cotter pin. All 4 places. A little heat should help expand the eye and break up rust.

Phil