Marsden nuts

[Blastfromthepast]

What size marsden nuts do I need for a 1936 coupe shock links

[35fordtn]

A 1936 did not Originally use marsden nuts. From 1935-41, a 3/8-24 hex nut was used and then from 42 up a 3/8-24 thin marsden but was used. The original 35-41 links with longer threads are hard to find. The service replacements and reproductions have shorter threads with the intentions of using the thin marsden nut.

[v8fordman]

1935fordtn is absolutely correct. You will have to look at your shock links and match the length of threads with the type of nut you use. Most shock links that are usable are service replacements or reproductions and therefore will take the thin Marsden nut. The original shock links not only used a 3/8-24 hex but a lock washer as well.

[Blastfromthepast]

Thank you fellas for clarifying the differences.
I have the replacement shock links and would need the mardsen nuts.

[Seth Swoboda]

Originally Posted by 35fordtn

A 1936 did not Originally use marsden nuts. From 1935-41, a 3/8-24 hex nut was used and then from 42 up a 3/8-24 thin marsden but was used. The original 35-41 links with longer threads are hard to find. The service replacements and reproductions have shorter threads with the intentions of using the thin marsden nut.

This guy here is a wealth of knowledge. If there was a PhD offered in 32-53 Fords, he'd have one.

[Tim Ayers]

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Can someone explain how a Marsden nut self-locks? I don't doubt they work, but I just can't picture how the slots cause it to lock on the threads.

[Kube]

Actually, and with all due respect, Marsden nuts began to show up on shock links in early 1939 - as I recall it was February / March of that year.
This was the time when the stud length was shortened.

[flatheadmurre]

Originally Posted by Tim Ayers

Can someone explain how a Marsden nut self-locks? I don't doubt they work, but I just can't picture how the slots cause it to lock on the threads.

The idea is that when you tighten them they deform from the threads pulling down on the inside and the mounting surface pushing up on the outside making the slotted part go inwards and lock.

[rockfla]

In modern parlance you might look at what is called a Grade "C" all metal lock nut.....it is "thinner" than a nylon type lock nut, slightly thinner than a standard finished nut & strong, and "might" work for what you are doing IF you cannot find what you are looking for. You will have to scuff and paint them as they "generally" come in clear zinc coated. Just a thought if "originality" is not as important

[35fordtn]

Originally Posted by Kube

Actually, and with all due respect, Marsden nuts began to show up on shock links in early 1939 - as I recall it was February / March of that year.
This was the time when the stud length was shortened.

Then I'll stand corrected!

[ford38v8]

Originally Posted by Kube

Actually, and with all due respect, Marsden nuts began to show up on shock links in early 1939 - as I recall it was February / March of that year.
This was the time when the stud length was shortened.

This coincides with what i'd been told, that the shaft on the shock link was shortened to provide a margin of safety for the larger tires of the Mercury, introduced for the 1939 model year. This was also one of those confounded parts whose configuration was changed without changing the part number.

[35fordtn]

Originally Posted by ford38v8

This coincides with what i'd been told, that the shaft on the shock link was shortened to provide a margin of safety for the larger tires of the Mercury, introduced for the 1939 model year. This was also one of those confounded parts whose configuration was changed without changing the part number.

This all seems clear to me now, as I remember reading a service letter or bulletin that when the 6.50-16 tires were introduced the change was made.. Does that sound correct Mike?

[Kube]

Originally Posted by 35fordtn

This all seems clear to me now, as I remember reading a service letter or bulletin that when the 6.50-16 tires were introduced the change was made.. Does that sound correct Mike?

Exactly!