64 coupe rear suspension

[Robert V.]

Several questions about the rear suspension:
How do you remove the brake drum/spindle from the trailing arm? After removal of the cotter pin and castle nut, does the seal and bearing (inner) have to be pressed out? Any other tips on restoring the trailing arm is appreciated.
The books call for a "natural" finish for the half shafts and drive line? After cleaning them up, they need some kind of paint on them. Would cast iron gray be suitable?
U-joints - with or without grease fittings?

[Joe L.]

Re: 64 coupe rear suspension

Bob-----

The rear spindle has to be pressed through the inner bearing and out. A special press tool is required for this job. Sometimes, a "spindle knocker" tool can be used. This is an inexpensive tool which, essentially, protects the threads and spindle end from damage and allows the spindle to be pounded out with a hammer. If your spindles have not been removed for years, I can almost guarantee you that this method will not work.

The finish on the half-shafts was, originally, that of extruded tube. It is difficult or impossible to re-create. Cast blast will protect the surface, but it will not create anything like an original finish.

ALL 63-82 Corvette half shaft universal joints were originally of the "non-grease fitting" type. Most were of Spicer manufacture and, some were of GM internal manufacture.

[Joe L.]

Re: 64 coupe rear suspension

Bob-----

The rear spindle has to be pressed through the inner bearing and out. A special press tool is required for this job. Sometimes, a "spindle knocker" tool can be used. This is an inexpensive tool which, essentially, protects the threads and spindle end from damage and allows the spindle to be pounded out with a hammer. If your spindles have not been removed for years, I can almost guarantee you that this method will not work.

The finish on the half-shafts was, originally, that of extruded tube. It is difficult or impossible to re-create. Cast blast will protect the surface, but it will not create anything like an original finish.

ALL 63-82 Corvette half shaft universal joints were originally of the "non-grease fitting" type. Most were of Spicer manufacture and, some were of GM internal manufacture.