Ford F1 backing plate, hoop steering arm problem.

I finally reached the point where I can bolt my steering arms on to my F1 spindles/backing plates.

The original bolts that held it together had a nut n the inside that fit the grease shield. Since I now have to put nuts and washers on the inside of the backing plate, I need to be able to tighten the nut up so the upper steering arm is tight.

The problem is that there isn't any room to put the nut in there, and if I did, a socket or wrench won't.





I know that I could bend and modify the shields, but I want to know if something is wrong. The shields fit pretty tight against the wheel cylinders, and the PO seemed to have bent them to clear a bit.

Otherwise, can these just be removed?

Thanks

***I'm aware of the scares and concerns with running these set-ups since you can not get to the fastener without removing the hubs. That's being discussed in other threads.***

 

You can grind the spindle just a little so you have clearance right on the raised edge where the nut hits. Just had to do this on mine. That will fix you up

 

I figured I would just shave a little off the side of the washer. But I suppose grinding a spot in the spindle would work too.

Of course, now I feel like and idiot because I did a few searches and found other people with similar issues.

From what I read, the original grease seals were leather, and leaked more. Since the new seals are rubber, they seal a bit better, and most guys just pitch the grease shields. I feel a bit better about this now. I just wanted to be sure I wasn't doing something wrong before I continue.

Thanks fellas

 

Yea. You could grind the washer. But the nut still won't be able to spin without hitting the edge especially when you start tightening and the spindle pulls into the backing plate

 

I see it now. There is only about 3/16" between the bolt hole and the spindle. I figured the washer would cover that. But grinding the spindle away is a MUCH better idea!

Thanks a ton!

 

I took the easy route and put one of those Pete & Jake's slingshot steering arms on. They are a female connection so you can put a cap screw on the inside and tighten it down. Down side is they're three times as much as the hoop arms...

 

That's similar to the Speedway lower steering arms. When I searched I came across a post saying a they used studs that were pinned into the arms, then nuts on the inside. The cap screws would allow me to run the shield for sure (if I had that steering arm). Thanks for the info.

Those Pete and Jake's arms are beautiful! I didn't know the existed.

EDIT- For that price and how much better they look, I think this hoop is going into the swap pile.

 

Why is your wheel cylinder on the bottom?

 

Paul, The picture is posted upside down.

....................Jack