Dodge Brothers differential in my Model T rear end

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Model T Ford Forum: Forum 2012: Dodge Brothers differential in my Model T rear end
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Mattthew G California on Saturday, July 14, 2012 - 10:33 pm:

Now I understand that Dodge Bro made parts for Model T's, but I am not sure that is what I have here.

For those who have been following I have a 1926 touring that I have been learning/working on the rear end:
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/257047/298520.html?1342040254

I first practiced with a ~1918 rear Model T axle from a trailer:
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/257047/291352.html?1341445967

I discovered that the differential was different. Namely the shoulder on gears on the axles (T2520-B) are ~1.560" and not ~1.800" that they should be on the T. The bearings in the differential are babbitt not bronze. (I am not talking about thrust washers here.) Also the differential is marked with Dodge Brothers...

Anyone have insight into Dodge Bros differentials/rear ends?

By the way, the axles (2505), spider (2524-C & 2526-B) and ring gear (2518) seem to be interchangeable.

Thanks,

Matthew


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Dave Huson, Berthoud, Co. on Saturday, July 14, 2012 - 11:08 pm:

Matthew G Californina:

Dodge Brothers Made almost every thing for the Ford up until I believe in early 14.
My 12 had DB flywheel, Con Rods, Steering Wheel, fire wall bracketss, wheel spindles, and Front Axle. I am sure many other parts were made by the Dodge Brothrs but thats all I remember for now.

Look for a Circle DB and you have it.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Mattthew G California on Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 02:12 am:

Thanks Dave!

I know that Dodge Brothers made a lot of Ford Model T parts to Fords specifications. What I don't understand is why these parts (namely T2520-B the 24 tooth axle gear and the differential housing) is not interchangeable with the Model T housing. I look here on the MTFCA encyclopedia, the MTFCA Front and Rear Axle guide and I don't see this as part of the evolution of parts. I can only conclude these were NOT a Model T part. If someone has more information I would love to know.

Matthew


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Royce in Dallas TX on Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 08:41 am:

The differential assembly was completely redesigned about 1916 I think. The early ones are found with various maker's marks depending upon who made the part. I have seen Dodge Brothers, a T inside a triangle, and no markings.

The redesign eliminated several machining steps, used less cast iron, and changed the housing bolts to studs.

The early diff is painted grey in these pictures:






Early one I built for my '12 touring:


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Mattthew G California on Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 04:58 pm:

Thanks Royce! This helps. I am surprised it was not mentioned in the MTFCA restoration book.

Is there any advantage of using the early designs?

Am I correct that they would be less desirable?


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Steve Tomaso - Milton,WA on Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 05:52 pm:

Royce,

I understood the earlier differential cases to utilize the stud and castle nut then changed to the cap screw/bolt arrangement in 1920 or there abouts.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Royce in Dallas TX on Sunday, July 15, 2012 - 09:52 pm:

Steve,

I don't know about that. The grey one has DB cartouche on it. I don't think Ford had anything to do with Dodge Brothers in 1920.

Matthew,

I am of the opinion both are equally strong. I would use which ever one I had. It doesn't show so I fail to see how one would be worth more than the other.


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