VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 Alemite Fittings

OK, I checked the web site and it does not have much in the way of specs. So I went to the local dealer and he had a book that looked just like the web site. He could not tell me what finish the fittings had. We ordered some only to find they were brass. Does any body have a part number to order the fittings?

Thanks

Most of the new Alemite fittings are brass and you have to get them nickel plated. Also, the hex shoulder at the bottom has to be ground off before plating so that the fittings will be like the original Alemite fittings since they did not have the hex shoulder. :eek:

Thanks JYD. I could have sworn someone said you could order them plated.

HI MATT. A GOOD PLACE TO GET THE ALEMITE FITTINGS IS-RESTORATION SUPPLY COMPANY. 2060 PALISADE DRIVE- RENO NEVADA 89509 PHONE NO IS 775-825-5663 THEY HAVE A CATALOG ABOUT 30 PAGES AND HAVE ALOT ON GOOD THINGS. I TURNED THE FITTINGS ON THE LATHE AND TOOK THE HEX OFF AND HAD THEM NICKEL PLATED, THEY CAME OUT GREAT.THEIR CATALOG IS LOADED WITH THINGS FOR EVERYONE RESTORING CHEVYS. :) :) :) :)

Ok....another question....
What year did chevrolet quit using alemite fittings? And will the judges ding you if you have zerks? On my 1-1/2 ton truck, I have added some small zerk fittings on my rear brake actuaters, brake and clutch pedals, etc. When I started the restoration process, they were rusted up solid from not having a provision for grease lubrication. I am assuming the intent was a drop of oil from time to time, but of course the previous owner(s) never had that done. The zerks are very unoriginal, but hey, my brakes work great! And I intend to drive this thing!
Where is the line drawn in judging as to "improvements" for safety and functionality, as opposed to originality? If improvements can be made to the engine such as, aluminum pistons, cam grinding with higher profiles, improved valves, lifters, shaved flywheels and modern clutchs, etc, etc. Do we deduct those items as well? My 33 OD 1-1/2 ton has a worn bushing on the drive shaft, causing the u-joint to knock. My plan is to machine the housing to accept a caged, long roller bearing, much like (may I say it) the big fords of the era used,(you'll notice the small "f". I agree, not original, but alot better design than the original bushing style. I should be able to drive the thing, without fear of a breakdown, but it won't be original. So again I ask, where to we draw the line? And how will I be accepted at a VCCA meet, with these non original improvements?
Perhaps I am fretting over minor details, but am I the only one to make "improvements" over the original design? And if the changes are not detected, is it acceptable?

Thanks again all...

Kevin :confused:

Kevin: Chevrolet switched to Zerk fittings in 1933 I believe. Yes, if your truck originally had Alemite fittings you definitely will be docked for that during the judging process. On modern updates within your engine and toque tube, since the judges can't see the internal improvements, no points will be deducted. Obvious things like the wrong engine for example will be caught and points deducted accordingly. :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: