I’m looking to do mine. I see Eaton, and Moog. Any opinions out there. Anyone know what brand would have been used originally on an 01 Freightliner Classic?
I do not know original but I use the Kysor no ream solid brass bushings. Believe there is a good old post in the search block here.
Be sure you match the bushings and pins to weight rating of front axle. 12k 13k and so on Or you will get premature wear on bushings is you heavier than bushings you put in
I don't know what they used originally but I think the front axle probably is made by eaton or Spicer or Meritor? If you really want original equipment you could clean the numbers off and contact whoever makes that axle and I'm sure they could get you the Kingpin set. I like the idea of the set that you do not have to ream.
I just wonder what’s original. Since they lasted so long. I’ve seen the Kaiser installation video. Seems like the easiest for DYI. I’ll call the Dealer first anyways, see what they have for parts and price.
We install the spicer oem bushings and ream to fit. I have heard good things on the kysor no ream kits from our customers. Check the new pin in the axle first to make sure the holes arent worn too bad before full install. The wedges can make up for a tiny amount of axle hole deformation.
If you get the factory solid brass bushing set, then have it machined at a machine shop, it will be the same as new. I cut them with an adjustable hand reamer which is only long enough to do one side at a time. They follow the path of least resistance. Then when you slide the kingpin in it will not go in both sides as they are on slightly different planes. I just install them a little tight that way. As long as you can turn the spindle back and forth by hand, even with difficulty, it will be OK. Applying grease on a regular basis is more important than .002 installation difference in my opinion.
