EARLY FORD AXLES   Author Unknown

Here's what I have. Note that measurements are not guaranteed to be exact--they are plenty close to tell one axle from another at a fleamarket, but not meant as engineering data.
Dropped original axles may vary somewhat on overall width. Recent streetrod axles are usually narrower than the Ford axles they are specified to replace. Recent dropped axles are rated in total drop, early axles on amount of drop over original Ford. Dimensions between holes are ceter to center from top of axle.


Kingpins perches perch thickness

1928-31 51 7/8 36 1/4 2 1/4 (continuous curve across)

1932-36 51 3/4 36 3/8 2 (ends curve more)

1937-41 50 7/8 38 1/2 2 1/4

1942-48 52 40 5/8 2 1/4 1948 holes for tube shocks

28-36 are probably the same widths--those are likely measuring variations there...

1932 axles, the heavies--if you haven't seen the difference, look at the perch area. Heavy axles are thicker than 2", so perch flat slightly recessed, '33-6 slightly raised! 1932 height of web~2 1/4", later about 2".

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Evil computer compressed chart--maybe this better:

Kingpins perches perch thickness

1928-31 51 7/8 36 1/4 2 1/4 (continuous curve across)

1932-36 51 3/4 36 3/8 2 (ends curve more)

1937-41 50 7/8 38 1/2 2 1/4

1942-48 52 40 5/8 2 1/4 1948 has holes for tube shocks

Axles are easy to identify by referring to the picture on the right, which was scanned from an old magazine article written by Neal East.

The 1928-1931 Model A axles have a uniform curve from end to end. The spring perch bosses are 2 1/4 inches.
1932 axles were the first Ford axles to be made with a slight drop. These axles are often referred to as '32 heavy axles. They are unique among early Ford axles in having a wider recess at the ends, and a slightly raised area on the front and back of the spring perch bosses in the shape of an I-beam. The spring perch bosses are two inches.

The '32-'36 axles have narrower recesses at the ends and along the center compared to the '32 axles. The spring perch bosses are two inches.

The 1937 V8-60 axles the only early Ford axles that are hollow forgings. They are flat along the front and back, so their cross-section resembles an oval track with short straightaways. They are relatively lightweight and not recommended for heavier cars. Their spring perch bosses are 2 1/4 inches.

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