Difference in '28-'29 front end to '30-'31

[37 Coupe]

On a Model A site a seller list a '28-'29 front end for sale.Weren't they all the same all four years? I am close enough to go look at it but would like to know what would fit my '31.First thing I know to check is the radius rod ball diameter as mine is really worn down.

[Purdy Swoft]

For one thing , the radius rod (wishbone) on the 28-29 models are different at the rear . I think they are referred to as the forged radius rod on the earlier models .

[Joe K]

The basic I-beam, spring perches, brakes, are pretty much the same. In fact, other than a noticeable change of pattern for the 31 wishbone ball yoke, the front ends and almost all parts including wishbone are "interchangeable."

Get into details and you can detect differences. A fair number of these in the backing plates, a few in the brake arm shaft housings, a couple relating to the king pin retaining wedge nut.

You can get ANY wishbone and it will replace your worn wishbone. Or, you can have just the ball replaced (a weld repair) Or the ball built up (a weld repair) Or the worn ball "tolerated" by using the later cast replacement ball seat and a rubber ball cushion and possibly the cupped washer that many use as "filler" alongside both original ball seat and the later rubber replacement.

Generally I like to take my front axles "complete" and keep them this way since removing the foolish spring perches can be a self destructive hassle. I think of the three axles I have "demounted" I was able to save one (of six) spring perches. Otherwise they get cut on either side and the slug punched out with a press. And, unlike the rear spring perch, the fronts seem to not wear quite so badly so I try to keep axle and wishbone together if at all usable.

But do as you see best.

Joe K

[37 Coupe]

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Thank you both,great help in responses.