Posted by Ray [172.71.167.20] on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 11:17:29 :
In Reply to: Re: Axel width GM corporate 14 bolt posted by Mike M [172.70.126.84] on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 10:11:39 :
You can always narrow an axle.
Cutting and welding the axle shaft is easier than many think
Place axle Shaft in lathe, using the spline in jaws, support the bolting plate at rear stock using the centered dimple that was used by factory.
Determine the amount shaft needing removal, and turn down the axle for your sleeve, and amount axle to be removed. Turn down shaft, with the amount you will e removing to a narrower diameter, be sure to taper the ends as it narrows. remove the shaft and complete the cutting, grind ends if needed
With the collar ID several thousands smaller than axle, bevel ends as well (of easy assembly as well as for weld penetration), heat collar for expansion as well as have shaft in freezer to shrink. Have a jig/arbor press ready to squeeze pieces together to proper length when ready.
Some people do not like welding on axle shafts, so other alternative would be to spline inner of collar and outer of shaft on Mill, and assemble with heat and cold as above, (but it is less likely the set-up for splining is in a typical home shop)
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