Another interesting period modification

[Ed Fuller]

Here is another one I’ve never seen before. While digging through an old Model T parts stash, I noticed the rear spring perches on these axle housings. Someone must have been tired of oiling them!

[Wayne Sheldon]

As the gap wore ever wider? Oil just ran out and disappeared. So, what a wonderful idea! adapt grease cups, and the grease will stay. The problem is, on the dusty roads of the day, dust kicked up by the front tires flows back and invades the entire rear end, including those widening gaps in the shackles. The dust sticks to the grease, some pushes out and some stays, mixing with the grease and making a fine abrasive compound. The abrasive compound works around the shackles, slowly grinding away the material probably faster than if there were no lubrication at all.
The question becomes, "when is it better to just let the loose things run dry than to pointlessly try to oil them?"

[TXGOAT2]

The best plan would be to rebush the shackles, then add grease cups and use stiff, waxy grease. The grease will act to keep grit out of the bearing if it is replenished often. Texaco used to make a heavy grease that worked well in places like that. Marfak # 0 or Marfak #1 (?)

If you drive on dusty roads, it's best to oil the chassis every day.

Even with heavy grease, the cups would need a couple of turns every day or so to keep clean grease in the working parts.

Oil mixed with powdered graphite would be a good choice.

Late 30's and 40's Fords used shackles with compressed fabric or rubber bushes. They held up very well with no lubrication. It might be possible to adapt the bushings and pins to a Model T. As I recall, the outer diameter of the bushings was around 5/8".

Delrin bushes might do a good job on a Model T.

[Flivver]

"Delrin bushes might do a good job on a Model T."

Interesting idea. Has anyone done any calculations, or tried this? I've got to re-bush my rear shackles soon...

[TWrenn]

"Delrin bushes might do a good job on a Model T."

Interesting idea. Has anyone done any calculations, or tried this? I've got to re-bush my rear shackles soon...

Or go all out and use UHMW. Indestructible, used in bullet proof vests, and self lubricating. No more mess on the floor anymore!

Too bad either of these aren't being made to fit our king pins. Be the last time we'd ever have to change them.