TR2/3/3A TR2 Lockheed axle?

[2long]

In trying to preserve my TR2's original Lockheed rear end, there is a need for half shafts which are stronger. Revington TR in the UK will do hardened half shaft, but they need an order of at least 3. Is anyone interested in going in with me? Cost is high (about 310 British pounds per half shaft) but it is an important part and it is worth preserving the marque!

dan

 

[TR3driver]

I'm just curious, Dan, are the original axles really all that weak? I know they tended to break under racing conditions (increased engine power & torque plus aggressive driving) but had the impression they were adequate for casual driving with the stock engine. I only put maybe 10,000 miles total on the only TR I've owned with the early axle, but the axle was never a problem and was all original AFAIK.

 

[2long]

Well, they do have a reputation, and I have been through two breakages under fairly tame driving conditions. It may have been a metallurgical issue when the original items were made, as the original application was the stately Mayflower, which had far less torque applied to the rear end.

dan

 

[TR3driver]

Well, if you've broken them twice, I certainly can see why you're looking for stronger axles.

But wasn't that basically the same axle (shortened of course) as used in the Vanguard? Heavier car, same wet liner 4 (similar torque even though power was much less) and a ridiculously low final drive ratio should translate to about the same stress on the half shafts?

 

[TimK1955tr2]

Dan, may I ask what area of your axles broke? I have a TR2 with the original axle, haven't had any problems with spirited but smooth driving over the last few years, I have heard of the Lockheed axle reputation. Just curious what to look for if I happen to have a look at the shafts... thanks, Tim

 

[CJD]

Dan, by "hardened" are they referring to heat treating or to using a stronger alloy?

 

[Marvin Gruber]

Dan,

PM me, I have an entire rear diff plus the front hubs. You asked me about the w/w hubs a few months ago. You should buy all these parts and that will keeps you in spares for a long time.

Marv

 

[2long]

Hi Marv:

I was able to have the Lockheed wire wheel hubs remanufactured in Australia. See pic below. Also, I am not too keen on buying used halfshafts, since I am concerned that the original batches made were made with poorer materials. John, I think what Revington supplies are halfshafts made from a higher grade material, rather than "hardened". I have also attached a photo of a stub from one of my broken halfshafts for Tim's information.

Dan

 

[TimK1955tr2]

Hi Dan, thanks for the info. So it looks like it twisted off right where the splines start, right at or just inboard of the hub?

Wow, you had the hubs remanufactured? Does that mean a worn out pair was refurbished or were they machined from scratch? Any information on that process would be great for reference.

Very interesting stuff, many thanks for your persistence on these rare parts. Even though I don't have an immediate need for new hubs and axles, I have often thought of the feasibility of having new parts made for the Lockheed axle. Glad to know it can be done...

 

[2long]

Tim:

The Lockheed hubs were remanufactured using old hubs as a core. Vivdownunder was the key in finding the person to do this, and he has helped me on countless other matters. I think the guy that remanufactured the hubs is close to retirement so I went ahead and got the spares.

Dan