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model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 10:48 am
by vcccnan
Gents
Have been trying to remove the universal and ball covering from 1907 Model N.
I removed the grease access screws from each side and note there is a slotted screw head bolt.
I can turn it but it does not thread out.
Is it a pin that needs to be driven out?
The ball is damaged so would like to repair or replace.
Any suggestions???
Fred
Re: model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 12:59 pm
by CudaMan
I don't know the answer to your question, but I posted a link to it on the Early Ford Registry forum in case someone there can help.
Hope you don't mind.

Re: model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 4:01 pm
by DanTreace
Haven't a clue on removing the universal joint on the Model N, but this link is the How To Run Instructions of the N, and has pages of how to's to remove parts. Page 16 picture of parts and is How To Remove Rear Axle, and on page 19 gives info on the U-joint, seems it is similar to the T, you have to remove the rear springs and drop the rear axle, then remove the torque tube to access the u joint and ball.
http://www.cimorelli.com/mtdl/Pre-1909/ford_n.pdf
Re: model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 4:08 pm
by TrentB
Hello Fred,
I am pretty familiar with all the parts on a Model N, and I am having a little difficulty matching your description to what I know. Are you referring to the universal ball joint attached to the front of the drive shaft, or something else?
It sounds like you are trying to separate the universal joint from the driveshaft. There are two cover screws located at the base of the universal joint ball. With the two cover screws removed, turn the universal joint until you see a pin (this pin could have been replaced with a 1/4” diameter bolt or screw). Using a punch, drive the pin (or bolt) out through the hole on the opposite side. Once this pin is out, the universal joint can be pulled out of the universal joint ball. The universal joint ball is held on by 4 3/8” bolts to the top of the driveshaft tube.
Let me know if this gets you where you want to go.
Respectfully submitted,
Trent Boggess
Re: model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 8:18 pm
by bobster1
Hi Fred, I think what your describing is trying to remove the universal from inside the ball which is pinned to the drive shaft. If this is the case, you'll need to drill out the pin which has been peened from both sides. Try and find the center and drill it out in small steps working your way up to larger drill sizes. If you have further question, I have lots of photos that may help you. feel free to contact me. Regards, Bob
Re: model N swivel joint
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2021 8:37 pm
by KimDobbins
I'll second what Trent said. You should be able to line up the pin to the holes and drive it out with a punch. I've never needed to drill the pin out on an NRS or a T.