so i decided to make a start on the straight tube axle for the valiant today. i got the mk2 ford transit axle ends complete some time ago. they're from a twin wheel mk2 but other than solid discs and 2 pot calipers they are the same as earlier mk3 transit too (they had vented discs and 4 pot calipers). what i needed to do was cut the twin wheel mounting 'bell' bit off of the hubs and turn the face flat, then countersink the bolt holes for the disc mounting bolts and drill the pcd i want in between them on the face. i cut through about 3/4 of the way on the lathe then used a slitting disc for the last bit. i also cut the ribs off with the grinder before using the lathe to flatten the face properly. i've measured and marked the face to drill the stud holes but i've got to get studs so i can drill the holes the right size.
next i need 2 bosses to weld to the tube i have, so i cut the end off of the axle 'stump' with the grinder and welded the cotter pin hole before i turned it down 'til it was all the same size. i'll strip the other side apart tomorrow and get the machining done.