- Location
- Roanoke VA
I finally got around to installing my new Longfields today. These are Birfields made for the D-30 that are much stronger at all steering angles than any U-joint style shaft. They come with a lifetime warranty as well.
Here is the install write-up;
First, in order for the dust boots to clear the knuckles, the knuckles have to be ground. This is done with a 4.5" grinder. Longfield supplies the gauge that you can check the depth and diameter of the grind with. The gauge should fit flush with the uni-bearing bolt hole bosses. I ground 2 sets of knuckles while I was at it so i would have a spare set ready if I ever need them.
The depth/diameter gauge
Checking to make sure the boot fits in the knuckle.
Spares!
Removing the old knuckles;
After removing the wheels, calipers, discs, Uni-bearings, and old axle shafts you will need to remove the old knuckles. I always pop off the tie rod first then loosen the lower ball joint nut (but leave it on so the knuckle will not fall on the floor when it comes loose) and remove the upper ball joint nut. I then use the two hammer method to pop off the knuckle (lay a small ballpen hammer against the flat spot on top of the knuckle and then whack the small hammer with a BFH) It usually takes 5 hard hits.
Then install the new knuckles, tube seals (which I recommend with the Longfields) and tighten to spec.
Here is the install write-up;
First, in order for the dust boots to clear the knuckles, the knuckles have to be ground. This is done with a 4.5" grinder. Longfield supplies the gauge that you can check the depth and diameter of the grind with. The gauge should fit flush with the uni-bearing bolt hole bosses. I ground 2 sets of knuckles while I was at it so i would have a spare set ready if I ever need them.
The depth/diameter gauge
Checking to make sure the boot fits in the knuckle.
Spares!
Removing the old knuckles;
After removing the wheels, calipers, discs, Uni-bearings, and old axle shafts you will need to remove the old knuckles. I always pop off the tie rod first then loosen the lower ball joint nut (but leave it on so the knuckle will not fall on the floor when it comes loose) and remove the upper ball joint nut. I then use the two hammer method to pop off the knuckle (lay a small ballpen hammer against the flat spot on top of the knuckle and then whack the small hammer with a BFH) It usually takes 5 hard hits.
Then install the new knuckles, tube seals (which I recommend with the Longfields) and tighten to spec.