Like we said earlier, Fatman's crew has gained a lot of firsthand knowledge by working on these cars, and D'Orta has a few helpful hints to pass along:
With the front suspension apart to install the new uprights, it's a good time to replace any worn components before you start putting it all back together. Any parts necessary are available through NAPA and the antique aftermarket. A good factory shop manual or a "Motor's Manual" will be helpful if you are not familiar with this particular suspension design. There is a pin joining the upright to the upper control arm that has to be rotated for assembly and alignment. There is a socket for a hex wrench hidden within the pin's internal grease reservoir. It is accessed by removing the grease fitting and inserting the proper-size wrench.
The rubber seals can be difficult to install and are often broken or missing. They can be replaced with slices of common heater hose; it can be stretched over the ends of the control arm prior to installing the outer pivot (or trunnion) pins, and then pulled into place after reassembly.
A simple steel disc seals the kingpin bore in the spindle. These come in replacement kingpin sets, or can be sourced at a good parts store by using the proper-size flat-style freeze plug for engine blocks. It can be debated that the integration of '49-and-later cars into the street rod scene is something entirely new and revolutionary or simply a return to what once was. But in either case, it's a welcome breath of fresh air as far as we're concerned. Take a look at how easy it is to apply street rod-building techniques to this '54 Chevy and see if you don't agree.
The new upright is installed...
The new upright is installed and a hex wrench is being used to adjust camber by rotating the upper pin. When the front end is aligned, 1 to 2 degrees of positive caster, 1/2-degree positive camber, and 1/8-inch of toe works well with today's roads and tires.
All that's left to do at this...
All that's left to do at this point is install the brakes, wheels, and tires. Compare the location of the spindle on the Fatman upright to the stock components in some of the previous photographs.
All buttoned up and ready...
All buttoned up and ready to go to the alignment shop. The original brakes have been retained in this case, but there are a variety of easy-to-install disc brake kits available if more stopping power is desired.