For some reason I had no luck with the search this time. I'm about to install a model A rear crossmember, into a 1932 frame. Do I install it level or do I have to angle it forward or backwards a certain amount of degrees. This might be a stupid question to some but help would be appreciated. BTW: I'm using a 36 axle with modified 36 wishbones, so the spring is behind the axle.
I have always mounted the rear axle and spring in the crossmember with the forward ladder bars/wishbones connected to the front crossmember and tacked the cross member so the pinion angle is correct for the installation. You don't want the spring to be in a bind due to the wrong pinion angle. Open or closed rear axle should be the same. I presume you are using a closed driveline or torque tube set up. Tack everything in place and then weld last. As I recall, mine was a few degrees up in the front. The frame should be at ride height. Hope this helps.
Ford used sheet crossmembers so they could twist a little. That said, It is best to mount them at the angle that causes the least bind in the spring. The spring should be mounted so it is at 90 degrees to the line from the shackle to the front suspension pivot point. This will let the spring flex with the least forward or back pulling on it. This is at ride heigth of course.
Thanks guys , but I was kind of hoping for a number, I know front cross members tilt back about 5 to 7 degrees.
With your enclosed torque tube setup, Install the rear end and spring so that the front bolts to rear of tranny, which determines position of rear X-Member .
Dreadman,I have set them in at "0" If you're running a later rear end,weld the hangers on to match. If it's a torque tube it should match up at "0"
This is what I did also. Open drive axle. Welded the spring mounts at 0* to match the crossmember at 0*. I set my axle to 3*. I'm running a 4-link though, so the pinion angle is not going to change as it goes through it's motion of travel.
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