I have finished the frame, motor, transmission and radiator on my 1927 Coupe. I am now installing Sure-Stop brakes on the rear axle.
1) When I tighten the axle nut the wheel is locked up. I am not trying to reach a certain torque; I am just tightening with a ½” drive socket. I think the problem is related to wear on the axle. The following picture shows how far the drum extends over the mounting plate when the nut is tightened. I am planning to use shims. I would like to put off rebuilding the rear axle until I can afford to install a floating bearing. I would appreciate any thoughts on this theory.
2) I believe the axle key was installed improperly. Am I correct that the square end should face the threads and the taper end should be facing the car with the taper facing down? The second photo shows the current installation. I have ordered new keys form Langs
Thanks for any help.
Alby Anderson
Alby,
I sent you a PM.
Alby -- The drum should not extend in past the backing plate. Either your axle or your hub is worn, or both are. The vendors sell shims, but they are too thin for your application. Order one of those to use as a pattern to make your own thicker ones from soup cans or similar material. Don't use multiple thin ones; they won't last any time if you do.
Yes, the axle key is upside-down and backwards. The rounded end of it should fit into the rounded end of the keyway.
In answer to question 2, axle key is upside-down and backwards. From the looks of things, no one has been inside that rear axle in a long time. Better open it up and inspect, and change out the babbit thrust washers NOW!
Can the thrust washer be changed with out taking the differential apart?
Here's a pattern for the shim. You may have to resize it for fit.
"Can the thrust washer be changed with out taking the differential apart?"
Yes, but you still have to dis-assemble the housings to get the differential/axles assembly out to replace the thrust washers.
No the entire rear axle has t be taken apart to replace the thrust washers. Get a copy of Glen Chaffin's instructions on how to do it. The instructions scared me, it really sounds complicated, but it really is not that bad a job to do, it just takes time to get it correct
Just to clarify, "Glen Chaffin's instructions" are contained in the MTFCA Rear End rebuilding book, available from this site or any of the T parts vendors. Alby, I highly recommend that you get a copy before redoing your car's rear end. You'll be glad you did.
Thanks
I will get a copy of the book
Happy to be of help, Good luck in your project. Any questions just call 951-735-4791
Lang's has a new item 0.017 shims along with 0.005
https://www.modeltford.com/item/2505SHB.aspx