Halftrack axle nut sockets..............

[clinto]

So they WWII halftrack takes two different axle nuts, serviced by one 2-sized socket.

The front one, you can't use a modern civvy one because the axle stub sticks out too far. The socket bottoms out before you get onto the nut.

Is there a way around this? Do one of you have an original socket I can buy/borrow/rent?

And no, I'm not gonna' use a chisel.

It's FSN 41W 2612-25

 

[gimpyrobb]

Why not make one? Bore out an old socket an weld it to another. I've done this multiple times and while somewhat ugly, works just fine.

 

[hndrsonj]

What size is it and how deep does it need to be?

 

[clinto]

What size is it and how deep does it need to be?

3 1/4" (I think, gotta' check again and I'm not at home) and probably 2" deeper than a standard axle nut socket

 

[8683jb]

The socket is 8-sided, 3-1/4" on one end, 3-7/8" on the other. I couldn't find an original or one deep enough either so I just bent up a strap, welded a nut to it and bolted it through the sides of the socket. I drilled the socket at both ends. If you do this you’ll need a carbide drill - these sockets are hard as heck. I just used a masonry bit in the drill press and it went right through. I used a 1/2" bit for 3/8" bolts so they'd be quick & easy to remove and replace to move the strap from one end to the other.
If you strike out on finding or making one, I may have mine back together in the next week or so, and if I do I can send you this tool to borrow.
Jon

 

[emptyhead]

Have you tried Kevin Lockwood over at halftrackinfo. He carries a lot of stuff and bought out a lot of garys stuff.

 

[pigpen60]

I agree with Gimpy!

 

[8683jb]

I agree with his avatar too!!