Front beam questions

[gbmetcalf]

Ok I have 4 decent solid beams in my shed that I picked up at a junk yard. I also have a ball joint beam that I have tore apart. When I rebuild these for FV use what should I look for as far as the internals? I have toothed adjusters to weld on , I don't see many toothed adjusters out there is there a reason everyone uses the screw type? How can I tell if the spindles and ends are ok?

G.

[BLS]

Brian, since I've been all through this recently I'll respond with what I know.

The toothed adjusters are fine as long as they are the quality ones (german). Others will jump a tooth... Screw adjusters are more common and less expensive. No real functional difference.

Check the beam itself to make sure it is straight. They do get bent.

Check the inner micarta bushings for wear. I found mine to have a lot of slop. The outer needle bearings are probably ok if they were not run dry, but you will need to check them. New micarta bushings and needle bearings are available.

The trailing arms need to be checked for straightness and wear at the inner and outer bearing surface. New inner micarta bushings must be reamed to fit, so inner wear can be compensated for. The outer not so much.

Spindles need to be checked for straightness and especially, crack checked.

Since these are used you will most likely need new kingpins and bushings.

You'll likely need new link pins and bushings and you will most likely want to have offset bushings installed to increase your negative camber.

Hope this helps,
Barry