bikerbilly18

so it seems the calliper mounting bracket has snapped where the parking break anchor bolt screws on.
I have ordered a replacement. but im a bit nervous about removing the spindle from the trailing arm.
I was wondering if there is anything special about the spindle knock out tool, would any large bolt with same threading work just as well?

also as i only intend to slide the spindle out replace the caliper mounting bracket and slide it back in, do i need any special tool to get the spindle back in? or will a big rubber mallet do the job?

Am i missing anything? should I expect to replace bearings,pins, ect?
Its a 1977. have lubed bolts daily for a week with pb blaster, any other tips?

MelWff

this is not a job for someone who doesnt have the correct tools and knowledge of how to set up the bearings. You see no way of doing this without removing the spindle?

hugie82

Unfortunately if you're going to break down the spindle and bearings to replace the caliper bracket, you're better off sourcing an entire trailing arm from a salvage yard for a cheap fix or take them both out for a complete rebuild about $900 for both trailing arms.

CaseyJones

That is about the going rate for a good rebuild these days. I had a shop in my area do mine that does rebuilds for the regional GM shops. Good work at a fair price, considering the expense of the job anyway. Where are you located?

bikerbilly18

im near virginia beach.


don't see anyway to replace the bracket without pulling spindle,

otherwise as there is enough threads to get the parking break anchor bolt centered properly, would welding it in place be strong enough?

69Vett

Dissassembly required.
would you trust your broken/welded rear end, (spindle/brake mount)
going 80mph down the road? Bite the bullet and replace it.

bikerbilly18

ok ........can anybody recomend a place where i can mail in my trialing arm for rebuild.

Mick71

If you have the correct tools and know how to use them, it's not too bad of a job. Do a search, lots of threads on how to do it. You can save mucho dinero DIY.

Most Harleys built since the dinosaur age use the same basic setup.

bikerbilly18

yea I found several step by step tutorials and youtube videos. But the bearing tool and reinstallation tool are pricey, anyone done it without these tools?

hereigo

We could split the cost...you do yours and then send the tools to me.
More partners could bring cost down considerably.

bikerbilly18

so i emailed some repair shops and they will only send a fully rebuilt trailing arm and give core credit for my trailing arm still over 200 after core credit
so i think im going to rent the tools from http://www.duntovmotors.com/tech-rear-spindle.php

"The tools are available from Mid America new for about $185 including freight, or you can rent a perfect used set from us for $198 (freight free), use it and return the still perfect used set for a refund of $120. I will also refund $1 for every unused new spindle shim you return."

redvetracr

a smart person who has never done this job before will remove the t-arm assembly ( a job in itself) and send it out. just my 2 cents worth

gcusmano74

Had mine done by Van Steel twenty odd years ago and no problems since.

loup68

Van Steel is the best place, in my opinion. I had mine done by them 25 years ago and they are still good, and I do drive my Vette! Lou.

Tampa Jerry

I have to agree with the advice of those who suggest sending the trailing arms out to be rebuilt. In addition to the specialized tools you can rent, you will need at the very least a dial indicator and most likely a micrometer to measure your shims if they have to be ground down. You will also need a large press to remove the bearing from the spindle. Call Danny or Artie at Van Steel and find out what it would cost to have them replace the bearings, brake mount and the front trailing arm bushings. They have rebuilt thousands of trailing arms and bearing assemblies. You will get back a rebuilt unit ready to bolt back in your car. Van Steel is local for me and they powder coated the frame on my 66 coupe and also rebuilt the rear trailing arms as well as the front upper and lower control arms. As part of my restoration, I rebuilt all brakes with O-ring pistons. If it is in your budget, the four wheel kit can be purchased for about $150. If the calipers have been sleeved, the O-ring fix is easy for the DIY. Good luck. Jerry