MTFCA Forum

The attached photo is of my 1927 coupe axle. I have read the front axle articles in the Model T Ford Service manual. Now I need some help deciding what items should replaced. Please provide comments and suggestions.

You may not need to replace anything unless its worn then replace. Can't tell much with pictures RED OVALS -
Check the bushings and the components for wear (shackles, tie rod bolts, tie rod yolk ball, spindle arms). The drag link ends where the ball goes in should appear round not oval/elongated. Tie rod bolts should screw into the tie rod end and the top eyelet should be round (not oval) and have no gap
Check bushings in the front spring too
YELLOW RECTANGLE
Wheel Bearings and seals. Wishbone (radius rod) ball ed should be round & smooth and fit snug in the ball cap socket. The ball cap socket mouth should appear round not oval/elongated
GREEN RECTANGLE
Spindle arm bushings (this is a different year) should be flat, no gaps and spindles should turn freely

I replaced all of the front end ball joints in my 1926 coupe with APCO ball joint tensioners AKA, “APCO anti-rattlers”, including the wishbone (radius rod) ball (which is bigger than the radius rod anti-rattlers). The concave cup is positioned against the ball and the spring inside applies constant tension to the ball of the joint no matter how worn the ball gets which is better than having a loose ball rattling around inside the non adjustable stock ball joint. Just need to keep it greased. My APCO ball joints are all vintage 1920’s, I found on eBay, where they are pretty common and usually easy to find with the keywords “APCO Ford”, but new ones are sold at Lang’s and Snyder’s. With these, I doubt if there is much you need to replace on your front end. I would prime and paint all the parts and assemble. Any bushings that are overly loose, you need to consider replacing with new bushings but if there is little play, you can lubricate and leave it as is. Jim Patrick

The Model T axle and steering system is about as simple as one can be, BUT every part has specific function and EVERY PART must be in good condition for the system to work as designed. When everything is tight and straight and aligned, they work very well.