The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop New front end installed and "oh what a ride"

If some of you can remember, back in Jan of this year I was restoring a '53 front axle assy to replace the tired setup in my '50. After a few detours I finally was able to install it this month.

Jan-Powder coated and extra set of axle and spindles, restored, repainted leaf springs and hubs.New king pins modern tie rods and modern ends, new modern steering connecting rod new brakes pads, cylinders and SS brake lines.

Then they sat.

Spring time-Replaced 4:11 gears in the back with Patrick's 3:55. Followed by new rear brakes, cylinders, restored leaf springs.

This month - Removed old front axle assembly along with old spring leafs, tie and connecting rods. Replaced main bearing seal, timing cover gasket and seal, side cover gasket, oil pan and valve cover gasket. Tightened up the steering box.

Finally installed the Jan project with new rods and shocks, etc.

Tonight my daughter helped me bleed the brakes, install the wheels and off we went on our test drive.

Unbelieveable ride. It has never driven so tight and smooth. Even my daughter said during the maiden voyage "Dad, what happen to all those bumps and shakes ?"

I appreciate all the input you guys gave during my various projects. Mechainiac, that pitman arm is

Craig

:confused:
Craig -
Tell us about the pitman arm???

Craig,

Congratulations. All your work is paying off.

Tim

6cyl,
Since I was installing new modern style tie rod, ends & steering rod, I could not use my original pitman arm which has a ball, so Mechianiac was kind enough to send me an extra of his which was missing the ball. Fit just perfectly.

I also must admit that I successfully cheated when bleeding the front brakes and never having to touch the rears. First drivers side and then passenger side.

And the creame de la creame was the results of front shoes adjustment. Initial serious stomping on the pedal with no hands on the wheel while traveling down a quiet road. It stayed straight. In the years I've owned this truck it has alway leaned towards the left. Even my brake bleeding helping daughter was impressed.

Maybe this is all a dream. If so I hope never to waken.

Craig-

Hard labor yields just rewards. An your daughter got a ring-side seat for that lesson. You'll grin ear-to-ear every time you turn the wheel!

craig thanks for the update! Good job!

Congratulations, Craig.

You sure did a lot of work! And that means you're experiencing a lot of positive changes ... what a joy, eh?

The next two major projects are a paint job and replace wire harness. I think I'll just relax and enjoy the ride for awhile, doing some other household projects such as finishing up my back patio, etc.

I really learned a lot and hope I can find another chevy such as a BelAir to work on....

This shows you don,t need all these hi-doller
front clips to make them drive good. Just get
everything in good shape.

Way to go Craig! Riding high and proud, and "I did it myself with a little help from my friends (and family)."

When you get around to wiring ... IF you're NOT going original, you should check out my wiring stuff:

[b]My EZ-Wiring Install[/b] (Daily Diary)

[b]Wiring the Engine Area[/b] for best performance

[b]Wiring An Electric Fan w/TWO Relays[/b]

[b]Adding Relays for Brighter Headlights[/b]

[b]The Truth About Fusible Links[/b] VS Fuses

[b]Wiring Your Dome Light[/b] Using Door Switches & A Relay

Craig,
I have enjoyed reading your progress. I to re-built the front end on my '51 GMC this spring and have really enjoyed the ride. Have a question about the steering box. Mine still has a bit of play and I have not yet done the adjustment. Did you rebuild yours?Tom

Thomas,
I did not rebuild it, though I probably should have. I instead just adjusted & tightened it up. With the pitman arm disconnected I was able to turn the steering wheel with no resistance showing on my hand held fishing scale. It took me a couple attempt to get to the 1 1/2 - 2 # range.

Craig,

Ok, I'm inspired now. I was debating whether to rebuild the front end on my 56 3100 or just put the engine back in and drive it, but your post has made my decision.

Given the choice between spending a few more months working on the truck vs. driving it and wondering how worn out my steering/suspension is, I'm choosing more work now and peace of mind.
LT

Rebuilding the front end is one of the most rewarding things you can do and isn't terribly difficult. It was one of the first things I did on my truck.

I just finished an R&R on the entire suspension of my '89 BMW. Talk about a differance, the shocks were leaking and the thing would shimmy and thump on bumps and brake applications. With new ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and shocks, it rides and feels like new and is perfectly quiet.

Craig,
did your motor have a rope seal or a neoprene one ?

Fred

Neo'
So I replaced it with same. I know some of you are saying "tish, tish, tish" but I want to give it a try.

They are so much easier to deal with and that is what the modern engines use. It sounds like you have a new truck! Knowing that you did all the work must be very satisfying.