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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1961 Econoline kingpins
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Question
I have a friend who is not computer literate but needs some information on changing kingpin bushings on a '61 Econoline van or pickup. He says that only the lower bushing on one side is loose. Can he change just that bushing or does he need to change both on that side? Do the kingpins just press out or is there a lockring as in a U-joint? Can they be hammered out or do they need to be pressed with a hydraulic press. I changed kingpins on something once but it was nearly 40 yrs ago and I don't remember it at all. Appreciate your help.
There should be a lock bolt through the axle stub end that locks the king pin in place. It is a tapered bolt with a nut on one end. Remove the bolt and drive the king pin out. It should drive out but I have seen then so rusted in place that the axle had to be removed and the pins pressed out.Both bushings should be replaced and reamed as they need to be aligned to center the king pin. This is done with a long ream that will ream both bushing in alignment.
Brad
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks Brad, I'd guess my friend needs to find a mechanic who might have the ream. I'll give him your response and leave it up to him, The nearest alignment shop which might have that expertise is about an hour away. Thanks alot for your quick reply! Bruce Messersmith | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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