Front Axle

[bratpackdad]

My 1973 M35A2 does not have an air shift switch under the dash for the front axle. I looked in the manual and it does not mention it as an option. Most Deuces I have riden in have them. Should I have one? Is my truck missing this?? HELP!

 

[gimpyrobb]

You have the older sprague unit. No worries, it activates the front axle for you.

 

[bratpackdad]

Thanks..I read through the posts on SS about the Sprague...there seems to be mixed feelings on it. Should I have the air shift installed? and which unit is safer?

 

[wsucougarx]

Well, from what a motorpool sergeant told me. The Sprag unit was the main reason the deuces were deadlined. The biggest reason being was the lack of maintenance and guys coasting their trucks. If you take care of it then you should get some years of use. I have had one deuce with a Sprag and will never own another one again. Mine had some serious issues

 

[bratpackdad]

Sounds like I need to make the change to the air shift...how involved is that? I do not see any details on the older threads..

 

[wsucougarx]

Not very involved. You need an airshift transfer case, airshift in cab switch kit ($37 shipped on e-bay) , and some air line.

 

[bratpackdad]

OK last question...what about dropping the front drive shaft or even the rear one as well? And just running with the middle drive line? Is this safe? will it wear out anything? I dont drive off road and mostly parades and such.

 

[wsucougarx]

Several guys do drop the front axle and sometimes the rear when recovering from long distance away. Not sure about the safety or the wear and tear on a Sprag. Are you having issues with your Sprag? The thing is your front axle is still rotating even without the driveshaft hooked up to the transfer case.

 

[bratpackdad]

Zero issues with it so far. However, I just picked it up. I dont plan to do alot of driving. I can't really foresee driving off road alot. Its more of a weekend spin around and parade use. I just dont want to do damage by dropping the drive lines.

 

[clinto]

http://www.steelsoldiers.com/deuce/8194-converting-airshift-transfer-case.html