trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

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Budgie
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trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by Budgie »

High folks so what should I do as on my last years mot the guy that sorts out my moggy repairs that are beyond me on times and also takes it for it's annual test said that the trunnions are worn and need sorting out before this years test is due which is coming closer and closer so my question is should I replace the unit totally or use top and bottom the repair kits? :-?
aupickup
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by aupickup »

need to take off the trunnions and have a look at the threads on the swivel pins
they should be flat
if the come to a point then they are worn , so replace the whole lot in that case
best place for legs and trunnions are bull motif
Budgie
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by Budgie »

Hmmmm I'm trying to establish from the exploded view of a trunnion on the MMCbath website what / where are the swivel pins are they the ones that have threads each end lower one is straight while the top one has a "flange " half way down it's length?
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by aupickup »

thw swivel pins or steering legs are the complete item with threads top and bottom and the trunnions screw onto them
Budgie
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by Budgie »

ah right so I shouldn't need the whole thing which I'm looking at in so much as the black forged bit that cost around £90 then sorry to come across as a bit thick just trying to make sure I buy the right part /parts . :roll:
simmitc
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by simmitc »

You might need the whole thing, it depends on what is worn. The swivel pin / king pin / upright (all the same thing) has threads top and bottom. The trunnions / links (same thing) screw onto these. If the threads on the pin are worn, then it will have to be replaced. If the threads in the trunnion are worn, then they will have to be replaced. There are over-size trunnions available, but you must use a special tool to re-cut the threads on the pins to match. The Club does sometimes have reconditioned pins and trunnions available as sets - ask sparesman bv PM or contact details in Minor Matters.

Generally, if anything is worn sufficiently to give concern, then I would replace both pin and trunnions. The alternative might be losing your front wheel - technically you don't "lose" it as it is still attached to the car, but stuck out to one side, and definitely not usable.

The most important thing with trunnions is to keep them well greased. when replacing the uprights, you will need to remove the old steering arm and fit to the new pins, unless you buy them ready assembled. Whilst you have the suspensions apart, it would be worth fitting new bushes at the same time.
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by mike.perry »

Do not take chances with the front suspension - if you are not sure then replace the whole side. It is embarrassing when you are sitting at the side of the road with a wheel hanging off.
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aupickup
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by aupickup »

and you need to know what you are looking ie, the threads to ascertain if they are good
best to replace if you have limited knowledge
bmcecosse
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by bmcecosse »

If your car is a 'keeper' - you may as well replace the whole lot now, and not have to worry about it for the next 20 years. Just replacing a trunnion on a worn king pin may get it through an MOT, but the new and worn threads won't sit well together, and won't last long. Fit new and forget.
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Budgie
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by Budgie »

Thanks again for the advice guys so it's complete new units all round then better safe than sorry !
aupickup
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by aupickup »

:D
but get them from bull motif
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by bmcecosse »

And try to get them with steering arms fitted - perhaps exchange your old units back to them - or you will have LOTS of fun trying to get the arms out of your old king pins........ :roll:
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aupickup
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by aupickup »

would be very expensive to send back
cheaper to get the arms fromm bull motif and washers and lock nuts
bmcecosse
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

Post by bmcecosse »

I didn't know 'new' arms were available Dennis..... I think you are missing your Minor!! Better get another one ! :)
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aupickup
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Re: trunnions replace complete or use repair kit?

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