8N Spindle Rebuild Questions

1951 Ford 8N..... So, after pushing a little too hard into a bank while using the front loader to scoop dirt off the top, I ended up with my front wheels going two different directions. I assumed I sheared a pin somewhere so put it in the shop and disassembled the front spindles. I inspected everything but did not find any woodruff keys at the top of the spindles so guessing the last guy neglected that little detail. I noticed that the left spindle was blackened probably from friction heat and that there are rough spots (grooves really) where the spindle rides in the bushing. I ordered a left spindle and spindle rebuild kit on this website. The right spindle should clean up with a little emery cloth. I also already have new tie rod arms and wheel bearings that I was planning to do so those get done at the same time.

Ok, so I have searched a lot of threads on here and still have a few questions..

From what I got from other threads, the missing woodruff keys are either 5/16 X 1 1/4 or 1/4 X 7/8. It appears for my tractor that it should be the 1/4 X 7/8 but will buy both sizes. From what I see in the threads, the steering arm (to spindle) bolts are 7/16-20 X 2 5/8. It appears that the steering arms slipped on these bolts without the woodruff key in place. Should these be Grade 5 or Grade 8 bolts? I haven't found the woodruff keys or the steering arm bolts advertised or available on any of websites for tractor parts.

To drive out the bushings, can you drive out both of them from the top and out through the bottom? Can this be done with the outer axle/spindle support still on the tractor or do you have to remove them to use a press? No, I don't want to drive the old top one down and leave it inside. I am considering a bushing cutter so anyone have a favorite? Likewise, installing the new bushings, I assume the top goes in from the top and the bottom goes in from the bottom? Same question on installing them, can it be done without removing the outer axle/spindle support? If done on the tractor, any tips on pressing them in?

Lastly, are there supposed to be either top or bottom grease seals on the spindles or is this old school, squirt in grease until it comes out top and bottom?

Thanks...

You can probably get more specific answers on the N board below.

But as I recall, when I did the spindle bushings on the Ferguson TO35, a close cousin of the Fords, the bushings had to be reamed after I replaced them. I split the old bushings with a Sawzall, then made an install tool (I work at a machine shop) with a shouldered bushing and all thread, pulled the bushings in from each end. That's when I discovered they had to be reamed. Luckily I had a reamer, but had a real challenge keeping it straight. The only reason it worked was I reused the worn spindles.

If I had it to do over, I would have taken the axles to a truck shop and let them install the bushings and ream them. They have the equipment and can do it in a fraction of the time, and do a better job.

I would also assume you will need to ream the bushings to fit once installed.