Traction-Lok Differential Disassembly
Chapter 4: 8.8-inch Axle Assembly
Traction-Lok Differential Assembly
Axle Housing, Wheel End Bearing and Seal Assembly
Ring and Pinion Gear Set Assembly
Chapter 5: 9-Inch Axle Disassembly and Inspection
Brake Drums and Axle Shaft Dissambly
Third Member and Pinion Cartridge Removal
Chapter 6: 9-Inch Axle Assembly
Chapter 7: Ring and Pinion Assembly
Gear Ratio Selection and Tooth Combinations
Chapter 8: Performance 9-Inch Axle Installation
Vehicle Acquisition and Inspection
Spring Pocket Kit Installation
Appendix: 9-Inch Axle Identification Codes
This project has been a very challenging journey for me. Even though the 1957 Chevy highlighted in Chapter 8 is not my first car restoration, it proved to be frustrating at times to be writing while building a car. I sincerely thank everyone who helped either directly or indirectly with the writing of this book. With this text completed, hopefully now I can get the car completed.
First and foremost, I must thank my wife, Kathy, for persevering through yet another book project while juggling the demands of the household and our twin boys. It has proven to be quite a challenge for both of us. I am truly blessed to have such a kind woman in my life supporting this endeavor and me. You never reminded me how difficult this was on all of us and instead you offered support and continuous encouragement, even when I questioned why I was doing this again. This book has become a family affair that is not just my book but rather our book. Thank you.
The entire team at Currie Enterprises, specifically Brian Shephard, treated me like part of the extended family and opened up the entire shop, parts, and mechanics for this project. Without their knowledge and willingness to share, this book would have never been possible. There was never a time when they did not accommodate any of my many requests for support and help. The Currie team recognized the need for a Ford axle book and even helped push this book to hopefully be considered the ultimate reference.
I thank Earle Williams for all of the great support, producing truly awesome hardware, and even the shop tour and guidance on the car. It is people like Earle that make the performance and aftermarket industry great.
My good friend Tony Nausieda reviewed the text countless times for accuracy while working on his advanced degree. I am fortunate to have a friend who is willing to sacrifice sleep and his own projects to help out with this text.
My high school friend, John Hosta, for influencing my life and jointly learning how to build performance race cars. We had many trials and errors on our cars, but we learned together to never give up and always strive to build what we are capable of.
Mac Kirkwood for the countless hours of conversation and advice on different methods to present the information and reviewing the manuscript.
My good friends Nate Tovey and Gordon McIndoe for providing a ton of feedback and providing a last-minute photo studio and even shop space for storage.
Ray Kuczera for his support and willingness to help. He was always there to remind me through example how important it is to share as much information as possible with as many people as possible.
Of course, the teams at Currie, Williams Classic Chassis Works, Hellwig, McLeod, D&D Performance, Performance Online, and Tremec for their support, advice, and great products. Without aftermarket companies such as these, the car build would have never been possible.
I hope that I did not leave anyone out; I sincerely want to thank you all.
My twin sons, Christian (left) and Adrian (right) were great helpers throughtout this project.
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