FV Front Axle Beam Question

[pacratt]

A friend and I each have front beams we need to prep for rebuild projects.
They need paint removal plus complete de-greasing of the inside.
Is there a dipping process that can be done without removing and/or damaging the phenolic bearings?
All useful input/suggestions are welcomed.
Thanks in advance.

Glenn

Please leave out any personal criticisms/conflicts.

[DannyPip]

I overhauled a beam over the winter for my car. It was rusty outside but in great shape.

I never considered chemicals, so I can't help with that. I have access to a sand blaster.

I bought various PVC plumbing pieces and machined them so I could plug the ends. I used a 10-32 threaded rod to hold them in place. I also used silicon caulk to seal them and let them cure overnight.

The next day I sandblasted the beam. Then wiped it down with paint thinner and brush-painted with Rust-Oleum gloss black. The silicon released cleanly from the roller bearing cages.

Re-assemble and grease it.

It came out great.

[BLS]

I would check the phenolic bearings as they may be worn out and need replacement anyway.

[pacratt]

Thanks for the input so far.
But still hoping to get an answer to my original question.

Glenn

[Steve Davis]

For the degreasing... I just used one of the spring blades and got out what I could. Really CLEANING it would be tough.. tho' if you're adding an ADJUSTER.. cut out that center section first. That way you can get MOST of what's in there out through the middle opening.
Steve, FV80

[DLRacing]

A friend and I each have front beams we need to prep for rebuild projects.
They need paint removal plus complete de-greasing of the inside.
Is there a dipping process that can be done without removing and/or damaging the phenolic bearings?
All useful input/suggestions are welcomed.
Thanks in advance.

Glenn

Please leave out any personal criticisms/conflicts.

Brother Glenn,

Your over thinking the process. Use a long flat piece of wood like a yard stick, insert until stopping at the spring lock, then rotate and draw out the grease on the stick. Any residual grease has zero impact on performance. As for the paint removal just use a hardware store available paint stripper and follow instructions. Before paint check the play in the bushings with a turkey leg. Your a machinist and know the clearance. A little slop up to .050" to .060" is just fine. What is of most concern is turkey leg side to side play. If not kept near zero the front wheels will wobble in corners. I have the solution for this that will reduce turkey leg side chucking to zero. Side load bushing wear goes to zero. Call me for details. You got me number.

Cheers,
Dave