1930's metalurgy

[Cummins]

I bought a '31 AA basket case with the intention of installing a larger heavier engine and transmission. (No, not a SBC!!) Looking at the cast steering arms at the spindles I'm wondering if they will be strong enough with the extra weight on the wheels and possibly power steering. Or would I be better off fabricating some new arms from 4140 or equivalent?

[flatford39]

I would be more concerned about the front spring and the brakes. The steering arms are the least of your worries..

[BrianT]

When you say a heavier engine how much heavier?, considering the model A engine and trans is 475# with a 3 speed,--- the 4 speed is much heavier --- the rated payload being 1.5 tons I don't think I would be to concerned about the front spring or steering as long as they were restored properly.
Welcome and keep us posted on your project.
Brian T.

[Reds34]

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that he may want to put a Cummins in his AA. Just a guess though.

Red

[Chris Haynes]

A straight eight.

[spectria]

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that he may want to put a Cummins in his AA. Just a guess though.

Red

LOL

[rfj52]

I believe all steering components are forged, shouldnt be a problem.

[Cummins]

I bought an old Dodge truck to donate the power train for the AA. Inline 6 motor weighs around 1100 pounds, 5 speed transmission a couple hundred more. Will need to box the frame, possibly change front spring with a custom unit. I'm fabricating a disc brake system for the front to fit the original spindles and wheels. Rear axle will be a floater from the Dodge, still need to decide on how to reinforce wheels around lugs after opening up center hole slightly to fit over axle. Cab will be slid back about 11 inches with a new hood fabricated. Might have to ditch the intercooler on the turbo, front end space is limited. I've got machine tools and welders in my shop so the project should be achievable.

[flatford39]

Like I said the steering arms are the least of your worries. As someone else here said they are forged not cast.

[spectria]

Pics would be great.
The spindles are strong enough even tripling the weight, the Front leaf spring, the shackles and spring perches will need beefing up, and I would add something to strengthen the front cross-member.
For the wheels, I would use a spacer welded on the outside of the cone (if you are using duals) There was a factory(?) spacer that just fit between the discs at some point, would probably be just right. jmo.