Front axle repair

All rubber mounts are destroyed though markings still are "readable" - see green mark on left rear support which is produced from higher shore rubber as most loaded from all four.

By some nibbling front brake drums are away. Condition of front braking mechanisms is surprisingly good - most important both are complete.

Steering gear is removed for further disassembly. Previously not seen dust cover on the cross stabilizer spindle.

"Ponton"is set completely free from all components. It is not mechanically damaged, so we could send it to the paintshop straight after cleaning.

 All removed and still usable front axle components will follow to the even more detailed disassembly and further treatment.

Steering and front suspension system components are undergoing detailed investigation. All front suspension pivot pins and interconnected threaded bushes are checked for excessive wear and not approved for further usage.

Knuckle bolts are checked and considered as worn out as well. Also bushings, dust covers and sealing rings shall be replaced.

In spite of excessive amount of water in the oil, steering gear metal parts are in acceptable condition so just bearings because of  rusted rollers and sealing rings shall be replaced.

Front axle hubs are made from high grade steel so have been able to withstand to corrosion through the years. Just cleaning and fresh paint here is needed.

All considered suitable for further use big parts are sandblasted. Smaller and more sensitive parts are processed in small blasting camera by glass pellets.

All running gear parts exposed to tough environment - humidity, mud, stone chips - were sent to powder coating. Front and rear suspension components are already painted and ready for assembly.

Parallel to body restoration all other components are passing through preparation stage. We have received from galvanizing special running gear components so we can start front and rear axle, as well as gearbox assembly.

New elastic engine mounts are installed on the engine subframe welcoming restored engine.

For more convenient front suspension installation subframe is put upside down on the assembly device. Using restored springs and arms, as well as all new components, front suspension is put into place.

Next assembly step is braking system components installation followed by new shock-absorbers, anti roll bar, wheel hubs, etc.

Brake shoes are ready for new brake linings to be glued on.

Steering system tie rods are among parts received from galvanizing. Using new ball joints we compose steering system rods.New brake cylinders, bearings, seals and gaskets are put in place on the front axle.

Using new bearings, seals and gaskets restoration of the steering gear is finished.All restored components of the front axle are put onto front suspension support frame.

Front and rear axles are equipped with new brake cylinders as well as with fresh galvanized parts and waiting for last touch-up - restored brake shoes.