The Ford Barn

Houdini · 01-04-2016, 06:20 PM

I'm new to this and just started a project to replace my king pins and while at it, have new spindle arm balls done. I've dis-assembled the wheels, axles etc and have a few questions.

My first concern is how the steering balls looked. My first thought was maybe they were replacement balls and that sending them in for exchange with Brattons would not fly, as they want originals and grind down the shank and press on new balls, not drill out a 1/2 hole and weld in new balls.

I've attached some pictures. I don't know what original balls look like, but I can't see any weld where there were replacement balls. Can any of you tell from the pictures if these are originals or not.

My second question/problem is the large nut that holds the steering arm spindles to the axle are tight and won't budge. I've put some penetrating oil on tonight, but I don't have much hope they will budge. If they don't, should I try heating with a torch? Any other suggestions on how to get them off.

Finally, any suggestions for a cleaning solvent for large parts to soak in. Kerosene use to be an economical solution, but these days, most places only sell it in gallon cans and its expensive. I see Henry use to call for gasoline as a solvent. Lately, that seems to be the cheapest, but not a favorite or safe one as far as I'm concerned. So any suggestions for a low cost, high volume solvent to soak parts in. Mine are really covered with heavy old grease.

01-04-2016, 06:20 PM	#1
Houdini Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Central Texas Posts: 113	King pins and steering ball questions I'm new to this and just started a project to replace my king pins and while at it, have new spindle arm balls done. I've dis-assembled the wheels, axles etc and have a few questions. My first concern is how the steering balls looked. My first thought was maybe they were replacement balls and that sending them in for exchange with Brattons would not fly, as they want originals and grind down the shank and press on new balls, not drill out a 1/2 hole and weld in new balls. I've attached some pictures. I don't know what original balls look like, but I can't see any weld where there were replacement balls. Can any of you tell from the pictures if these are originals or not. My second question/problem is the large nut that holds the steering arm spindles to the axle are tight and won't budge. I've put some penetrating oil on tonight, but I don't have much hope they will budge. If they don't, should I try heating with a torch? Any other suggestions on how to get them off. Finally, any suggestions for a cleaning solvent for large parts to soak in. Kerosene use to be an economical solution, but these days, most places only sell it in gallon cans and its expensive. I see Henry use to call for gasoline as a solvent. Lately, that seems to be the cheapest, but not a favorite or safe one as far as I'm concerned. So any suggestions for a low cost, high volume solvent to soak parts in. Mine are really covered with heavy old grease.