[JPBrecheisen]

I agree maxwoof. I just think its kinda nice to see them once and a while when they have the original equipment under them. I am still looking for parts, but leads are slim at this point. It seems like everybody that I have called has recently scrapped what they had. I do have a lead on 2 parts truck that may have some items of use. I don't disagree with the open knuckles being better, but this truck is almost 100% original, so I'm gonna try to keep it that way if possible. I've done the same trick you've talked about with the closed knuckles on my Willys wagon. There is special lube that is supposed to go in them...its really heavy, but still fluid. NOVAK sells the stuff. Its supposed to be heavy enough to the point where it won't leak out, but liquid enough where it still slings to lube the trunion bearings and u-joint. When I did my willys, I just put a bead of grease on the inside of the felt seal when I put it togther and made sure the u-joints were greased really well before I installed the axles. I used a needle fitting to make sure they were nice and full. That vehicle doen't go over 10 MPH when in 4x4, so I don't think it will sling out. I also packed the trunion bearings just like I would with a wheel bearing. I think it will work. So far it has. Thanks for passing on the tip though. I appreciate it very much.

I did find some extra outer axle stubs from R&P 4WD out of a ford and they are going to mill down the spindle bushing/bearing race as discussed in previous post so they will be compatible with the disk break spindles. I didn't want to cut the original axles and want to have them set aside when I do come across some hubs/drums/spindles etc.

Here are some pics of the axle bell/ball repair. Its JB Weld original formula metal epoxy. Takes time to cure, but it works pretty well. I pasted it in, let it dry, then started with 220 grit then on to 320 grit. I had to apply a bit more in a few spots, but so far so good. Once its painted, there will be a nice smooth surface for the seal to slide on.