Bent D44

[Pauly]

It Looks like I've outdone myself this time. I bent the axle tube between the ears for my radius arm and the C part of the Knuckle. I dont know how stupid this question is, but is there a way to fix this, without re-tubing the dang thing? If anyone has a thought would ya let me know?
Thanks.

 

[I Lean]

Depending on how bad it is, I've seen people do it with a chain and a hydraulic bottle jack. It can get scary though.....and usually I've seen it used to correct a bent rear axle that's just sort of "bowed" all the way across, not such a small area. You'd need to use a whole lot of force concentrated right there, which might lead to......interesting results.

 

[Chevycrew]

frame rack, heat...

then a bunch of gusseting?

 

[rockreligious]

depending on how bad it is you can bend it back by welding on it. heavy beads on the side you want it to bend back into. gut the housing and set up a jig and straight rod so you can measure how much more to bend to center. might be easier to find another housing, if its not straight you will go through tons of wheel seals.

 

[Jared]

Find a 12+ ton jack, an I-beam stronger than the axle, and some chains stronger than your jack and go to town.

I've straightened two different XJ/TJ D30 fronts bent in the exact same spot as yours with great success. Just bend it until your back into spec on camber (you can check this with a level if you're careful). Get it straight, gusset it and forget it. I've never had problems with either axle after the fact and never lost a wheel seal.

Good luck!

 

[Pauly]

Thanks all. I Think I'm going F/W. Its pretty bad, and I made it worse with the jack. ooops!