Torque tube modification

[motordr]

I am converting a 1934 rear axle assembly to Fit a 1932 Ford with the addition of the Columbia 2-speed option.
My question is, how have you shortened the torque tube? Options that I see are to either shorten it at the front or bell end or cut and weld closer to the scalloped flange.
I am thinking the flange end is better for alignment and strength due to the larger diameter of the tube. This involves relocating the wish bone bracket, but that has to be done anyway to orient the speedo turtle correctly.
What has worked best for you? Thanks, Ted

[Kurt in NJ]

Why not find a later 32 tube/shaft and use it un modified

Do you have a 34 columbia?, the later columbias need a spacer to use on the narrower 34 banjo

[SUHRsc]

I've shortened a few of them for hot rods or race cars... I always cut back near the flange so I can put that section in my lathe and square the edge nicely with a slight bevel to weld.

[motordr]

Originally Posted by Kurt in NJ

Why not find a later 32 tube/shaft and use it un modified

Do you have a 34 columbia?, the later columbias need a spacer to use on the narrower 34 banjo

Hi Kurt, finding the correct torque tube is of course the best option. It needs to be approximately 53 3/8" total length, with the scalloped rear flange and the one piece ujoint clam shell. I have an ad posted in the want ad section.
I am adapting a 1946 style Columbia, so I have the spacer as well as the modified passenger side axle housing. Thanks for your interest!

[Bassman/NZ]

I cut mine in the middle, bevelled the cuts, clamped them into a big-arse length of angle iron. Welded up, then assembled and with it sitting with the tube pointing straight up, slipped the front bearing over the driveshaft. It sat there, not sliding into place, as you would expect. A bit of weld in the strategic spot and it just slipped right into place. When cold, I checked it would still come out and go in ok, then ground off the strategic weld. Worked perfectly.

[BoxCar Tom]

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I have a correct late 32 Drive shaft I would like to sell. If that helps

[motordr]

Originally Posted by BoxCar Tom

I have a correct late 32 Drive shaft I would like to sell. If that helps

I sent you an email Tom, I am interested in purchasing. Ted phone 905-563-4364

[glennpm]

Hi,

I have a 40 rear end and Columbia in my 32 roadster. The torque tube dimensions worked perfectly. I bought the modified torque tube but noticed that the bell end to rear flange end were not quite parallel so had if turned in a large lathe to remove minimal material from the back flange to make them so. It mounted perfectly. The sketch was made by an old friend.

My notes show that the axle housing needed to be reduced but I don't recall doing so and it appears dimensionally fine although I don't have my fenders mounted yet, so don't take the notes for gospel.