Old Britts – Removing the Swinging Arm Spindle
Download the complete PDF version using the green download button at the top right of this page for an Old Britts technical article covering removal of the Norton Commando swinging arm spindle. Written by Fred Eaton, this guide explains the differences between Pre-MK3 and MK3 spindle retention, including the securing bolt, cotter pins, end caps and Welch plugs used on the various Commando swingarm assemblies.
The article begins with removal of the spindle retaining hardware, then explains how to remove Pre-MK3 end caps and MK3 Welch plugs. For MK3 models, it shows how to drill and tap the Welch plug, then use a simple angle iron puller arrangement to draw the plug out of the end of the swinging arm.
The final section covers spindle extraction using a 1/2" x 20 bolt, nut and socket as a home-made puller, or the Norton factory puller 06-4297. Illustrated photos show the puller setup in use and explain how to continue drawing the spindle out once it begins to move. The guide also notes that tight or rusted spindles may require penetrating oil and heat.
Contents Include
- Removing Pre-MK3 and MK3 swinging arm spindle retainers
- Securing bolt and cotter pin removal notes
- Pre-MK3 end cap removal procedure
- MK3 Welch plug drilling and tapping method
- Home-made Welch plug puller arrangement
- Swinging arm spindle puller setup
- Using a 1/2" x 20 bolt, nut and socket
- Norton factory puller 06-4297 reference
- Pulling the spindle free from the cradle
- Penetrating oil and heat advice for seized spindles
