Play in swivels - how much is normal

Having taken off the front axle in order to replace springs, shocks and chassis bushes etc.
About ready to put it back on after replacing all the balljoints etc.
If I grab the top of the wheel and rock it there appear to be play at the top of the swivel - cluncs a bit and moves about 2 or 3 mm. Its not bearing any weight but I dont think it should do this.
Not sure if I should just keep an eye out for another axle as the swivels are pretty corroded but I'm too tight to buy a new pair!

There should be virtually no movement in the swivels other than that, that allows for steering. If the bushes are moving as much as you describe then they are knackered and probably dangerous. Bushes, pins and bearings aren't that expensive and will keep you going until you can afford to do the job properly.

There should not be any play in the swivels at all, they should be pre loaded.

Check it's not the wheel bearings - try rocking the wheel horizontally as well...

Bugger, might keep any eye out on fleabay then. Dont really want to spend £220 for a pair of swivel kits but not much point in spending hours rebuilding them and keeping rusted swivels.
thank you.

Chockydogs said:

Bugger, might keep any eye out on fleabay then. Dont really want to spend £220 for a pair of swivel kits but not much point in spending hours rebuilding them and keeping rusted swivels.
thank you.

Click to expand...

swivel pin kit wont be anywhere near that much, that price includes chrome balls ,does yours need them

google da2178

jamesmartin said:

swivel pin kit wont be anywhere near that much, that price includes chrome balls ,does yours need them

Click to expand...

I think its fair to say that it would need the chrome balls if I take it apart !

you might get away with removing a shim or 2 but it needs chrome balls etc soon

Get the britpart swivel ball kit, ive had it on mine with no issues. Only cost £80, i did swap the railco bush for genuine and bearing for timken though.
Are you sure its swivel play and not wheel bearing? Try adjusting wheel bearing first