redrilling axles

[a/fxcomet]

Has anybody done this with just a drill press? I have and old Tex Smith engine swapping book and they talk about doing it with a drill press, but using a jig. To make the jig you would need a mill and lathe, right?


Do you need a fancy press (huge) to press in the studs? Or can any run of the mill press work?

[Paul2748]

If your talking rear axles, I recommend a machine shop so the holes are indexed correctly. It probably can be done with a drill press. but the holes have to be indexed to the center of the axles.

Studs can be pressed in with any press. I press them in with my vise and a deep socket, sometimes with a bfh

[36-3window]

you have answered your own question. yes,it can be done with basic tools and equipment,but that requires a very precision built jig that has to be made on a lathe and mill. i made one that centers on the part of the axle flange hub that sticks through the center brake drum hole,with the use of a sleeve for each different size hub. it can also center on the center hole of the axle flange with a special end cap,or the existing bolt pattern. it has 5 on 4-1/2", 4-3/4" ,5" and 5-1/2" bolt patterns precision layed out and drilled and has harderned drill bushings installed. a lot of work to make,but now i can change bolt patterns very easy.


paul is right,have some machine shop do it, or make you a jig,or just send the axle to Moser Engineering. they don't charge a lot to redrill bolt patterns,and you know it will be right

[atch]

i'll probably catch h e double hockey sticks for this, 'cause there's probably a good reason to NOT do this, but you can install the studs without a press if you just get a standard lug nut for your threads, a spacer (a slightly larger nut works fine) and put the lug nut on "backwards" with the flat side toward the axle flange. tighten with a ratchet or breaker bar with the correct size socket. just turn 'till the stud is seated fully.