front axle problem
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
front axle problem
I have a 1962 with a worn mount for the right side upper inner A-Frame pivot. The holes where the upper A-Frame pivot goes through the subframe are elongated. Does anyone know of a repair for this problem or where to get a good subframe?
Heel & Toe
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: City of Sails NZ
An insert is available to replace the worn part.
You will need to grind out the existing one and weld in the replacement. It's important to get it located correctly, and you may find the shaft may need replacing too.
Check out Corvette Central, Zip etc for the part.
You will need to grind out the existing one and weld in the replacement. It's important to get it located correctly, and you may find the shaft may need replacing too.
Check out Corvette Central, Zip etc for the part.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 14,644
Likes: 4,691
From: Mustang OK
2026 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Modified
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Tom,
This is a fairly straight forward repair, once you have acquired the repair parts. Sources such as Corvette Central sell a repair bushing which is specificaly for this repair. Plus, as already mentioned, you will also need to replace the upper, inner A-frame shaft. If you are totally unfamiliar with this repair---------------------FIND A COMPETANT PERSON OR A FRONT END SHOP WHICH IS TOTALLY FAMILIAR WITH WHAT IS REQUIRED!!!! Not only will the suspension need to be partially disassembled, but once that is done, then the bushings will need to be welded in place, then the new shaft installed and reassemble the suspension. This will all need to be done at the same place, because once it is dissambled, it will be immobile. I am quite sure that it is probably completely impractical for you to do, but the best way to do this would be to remove the front cross member and take it to have the work done. I have done several of these repairs/rebuilds, and as mentioned, it is important to have the new bushings properly located and welded. If your car has its original cross member, I would not consider replacing it. I'd encourage you to have it repaired-----------------BY SOMEONE WHO HAS PAST EXPERIENCE DOING IT (they will be far and few between!).
One last thing. If the upper inner shaft is this bad on one side----------CHANCES ARE EXCELLENT IT IS ALSO BAD ON THE OTHER SIDE!
These old front ends have metal-to-metal suspension joints. The key to long life for them is frequent, repeat, FREQUENT greasing of the joints. There are a total of 22 grease fittings on these old front ends (plus one at each U-joint in the drive shaft). Back in their day (same front end is on the 49-54 passenger cars), many people did not keep them properly greased and repairs were frequent.
Tom Parsons
This is a fairly straight forward repair, once you have acquired the repair parts. Sources such as Corvette Central sell a repair bushing which is specificaly for this repair. Plus, as already mentioned, you will also need to replace the upper, inner A-frame shaft. If you are totally unfamiliar with this repair---------------------FIND A COMPETANT PERSON OR A FRONT END SHOP WHICH IS TOTALLY FAMILIAR WITH WHAT IS REQUIRED!!!! Not only will the suspension need to be partially disassembled, but once that is done, then the bushings will need to be welded in place, then the new shaft installed and reassemble the suspension. This will all need to be done at the same place, because once it is dissambled, it will be immobile. I am quite sure that it is probably completely impractical for you to do, but the best way to do this would be to remove the front cross member and take it to have the work done. I have done several of these repairs/rebuilds, and as mentioned, it is important to have the new bushings properly located and welded. If your car has its original cross member, I would not consider replacing it. I'd encourage you to have it repaired-----------------BY SOMEONE WHO HAS PAST EXPERIENCE DOING IT (they will be far and few between!).
One last thing. If the upper inner shaft is this bad on one side----------CHANCES ARE EXCELLENT IT IS ALSO BAD ON THE OTHER SIDE!
These old front ends have metal-to-metal suspension joints. The key to long life for them is frequent, repeat, FREQUENT greasing of the joints. There are a total of 22 grease fittings on these old front ends (plus one at each U-joint in the drive shaft). Back in their day (same front end is on the 49-54 passenger cars), many people did not keep them properly greased and repairs were frequent.
Tom Parsons
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,104
Likes: 1
From: Frederick Md
Frequent is right!
How about every time you drive the thing, get out the grease gun and grease her up. Another reason to set it in the corner!!!
I have a complete 62 front end, looking for a home!!!!
I have a complete 62 front end, looking for a home!!!!
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Dear sir,
Thanks for the quick response. I thought someone must make a repair insert for this. I will contact Corvette Central and obtain the parts. I've been in the car repair racket for about 35 years so I think I can manage this repair. You are absolutely right about locating the bushing correctly since there is very little adjustment for the front end of this vehicle.
Thanks again for your help.
Tom Cook
Thanks for the quick response. I thought someone must make a repair insert for this. I will contact Corvette Central and obtain the parts. I've been in the car repair racket for about 35 years so I think I can manage this repair. You are absolutely right about locating the bushing correctly since there is very little adjustment for the front end of this vehicle.
Thanks again for your help.
Tom Cook
