Rear Shackle Install On A '40

[Tinker]

https://fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15960


pretty easy to check the leaf width with a common measure tape. most aftermarkets are 2".




,

[ford38v8]

Originally Posted by Tinker

https://fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15960


pretty easy to check the leaf width with a common measure tape. most aftermarkets are 2".
,

Tinker, the question is not width of the springs, it is length between pins of the shackles.

[Gary in La.]

1942-48 shackles, front and rear, measure 2 3/8" between centers.


1935-40 shackles, front measure 1 1/2" between centers. Did'nt have a rear kit to check


Did'nt have a 1941 p/n kit to measure. Not sure why it's listed separate.

[JSeery]

The difference should be with & without a track bar. On the earlier models the shackles helped control side movement. On the later models a track bar was added. So would think that would be a determining factor on what the 41 required in shackle length.

[philipswanson]

My shackles from Speedway have pins 1 5/8" apart. Pretty much the same as the ones that were on the car originally. Certainly not enough of a difference to cause my misalignment problems.

Thanks, Phil Swanson

[19Fordy]

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Phil: Be sure and let us know how you finally solve this problem. I, for one, would like to know. Now, get back in the garage and make it all happen.

At this point solution is either Mart's idea or larger shackles.

Surprised someone with a 40 station wagon hasn't provided needed input.

[philipswanson]

Looks like it's going to be ok. I am waiting on new bushings because with all the hammering, prying and twisting, those were pretty much ruined. I think the answer will be as the spring hangs from the cross member on a chain (free)
I twist it on both ends enough to follow the angle of the axle housing eyes to assemble the shackles. Then jack up in the center and use a pry bar to pry the sides of the spring in the cross member until the square fitting pops into the frame. Anyway, that's the plan. I noticed both axle housing eyes are angled about the same so that would indicate that one of the arms aren't bent.
The drivers side housing was just straightened by Columbia Two Speed Parts in AZ when they spun it on a lathe to install a sleeve on the end.
Will let you know how it turns out. Thanks again to everyone. We can all learn from these experiences.

[ford38v8]

I never heard of "straightening" a housing. And I hope they didn't machine the mounting surface, all you ever want to do there is to run a file across to knock down any burrs.

[JSeery]

There are several reasons a housing requires straightening. I am familiar with mostly hot rod stuff like welding on one side of a housing, but I would assume there are other reason it could be required. Any I have straightened is done with heat.

[philipswanson]

Originally Posted by ford38v8

I never heard of "straightening" a housing. And I hope they didn't machine the mounting surface, all you ever want to do there is to run a file across to knock down any burrs.

According to Columbia Two Speed Parts, many of these axle housings are bent when they come in to be bushed on the wheel bearing surface. No they don't touch the mating surface.

[19Fordy]

Phil,
If you ever see another stock 40 SW at a car show ask
the owner if it's ok to take photos of his rear end........................(car).

[deuce_roadster]

I do have a stock 40 wagon, I am not sure a picture would further Phil's project at this point, sounds like he is on his way to completion. If he wants though I can send him one.

[philipswanson]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

Phil,
If you ever see another stock 40 SW at a car show ask
the owner if it's ok to take photos of his rear end........................(car).

I have a neighbor less than a mile away that has a 40 wagon being restored, frame off and almost complete. He is running a lighter spring. Doesn't help to look at one installed. But thanks for the suggestion.

[19Fordy]

Ok. I was just thinking that when talking with the other station wagon owner you might find out some tips on installing your spring as he may have already, "been there,done that." Sure hope you have success.

[philipswanson]

Got it in finally! Thanks for all the help guys! I actually used most all of the advice to get this done. Fortunately. I never had to heat the axle arms. I did cold bend the last one a little as I pushed in the last pin. Used my big 18" crescent to give it just enough twist. After securing the ends, the center peg went right in as I tightened the U bolts. No coaxing required in the center so all must be aligned just right. My spring is a monster and has 12 leaves. You guys are great!

[JSeery]

Way to hang in there!!

[19Fordy]

Wonderful! I keep reading in my reference books that the 1940 ford station wagon used a 14 leaf spring and a 12 leaf is for 1938-41 sedan delivery.
Is that correct?

In any case, if your spring gives you the look you desire without the car looking too high in the rear you are just fine. Congratulations. I admire you for not giving up. Enjoy your car.

[philipswanson]

I have removed and replaced many engines and/or transmissions much easier than the job was. I don't know why but this job was very difficult. Thanks to all!

[Mart]

Philip, I'm glad you persevered. Well done.

Mart.

[fourtydlx]

make the spring loose in cross member , easy to move .