Re: Anyone have a rear spring spreader around Detroit, MI?
If you were in my area (Southern California) I would certainly loan you one. Usually a Model A club in your area has one to loan. I would buy a spring spreader. Somewhere down the road you will need it again. When purchasing one be sure you are buying a proper spring spreader. Some suppliers sell what they call a traveling spring spreader or half a spreader. These are extremely dangerous to use. They can launch like a cross bow. That may be why they call them traveling.
The full spring spreader shown in the photo is the economy model and is perfectly safe. They sold for about $60 years ago. I think they are around $100 now. The one with all the bells and whistles sells for $135. These have thrust bearings and feet retainers. They are just easier to use.
If you are not familiar with a Model A rear spring approach it cautiously. Some people will advise you to pull the rear with the spring attached. This is a dangerous practice. if the rusted 80 year old center bolt lets go you will have spring leafs 20 feet in the air.
Spread the spring with the spreader, remove the rear, collapse the spring spreader and remove it, and then remove the spring. It is not lethal when it is not spread.
Tom Endy
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