Front end 1977

[BroncoBlake]

What goes on first? Spindle or anchor plate? Looks like spindle is drove or pressed into anchor plate the that assembly is installed. Is this correct?

 

[DirtDonk]

Pretty sure it’s the caliper mounting plate first. If you look at the spindle I think you will see that the register is too long to go first. It would stick in too far and jam up the axle shaft.

 

[DirtDonk]

That is for the Ford brakes of course.
Assuming your 77 still has the original disc brakes, that’s how it would work. A GM conversion works the opposite if I remember.

And you should be sure what type you have if you are not already. It doesn’t happen often, but we have run into 76 and 77 Broncos that have been swapped.

 

[DirtDonk]

Oh, and I don’t remember the caliper bracket being much of a press fit with the spindle.
If it’s really tight you might consider making sure there’s no rust buildup on the inside.
While a good solid fit, I’ve always been able to spin it and take them off by hand.

 

[BroncoBlake]

Oh, and I don’t remember the caliper bracket being much of a press fit with the spindle.
If it’s really tight you might consider making sure there’s no rust buildup on the inside.
While a good solid fit, I’ve always been able to spin it and take them off by hand.

Thanks so much ! I appreciate your insight

 

[DirtDonk]

After cleaning you can use grease or anti-seize to promote easier removal the next time. First time can be a real bear!
I typically paint the flange area too, just to keep rust down a bit and less creep into the machined areas where it can do it's mischief.
Hence the grease recommendation, since even a thin layer of paint might make installing a little harder.
The spindle is a pretty tight fit into the knuckle, so it acts as both a lube and a rust reducer.

paul