Hawk 289 rear axle and suspension

When I ordered the kit, I also purchased a rear axle from an MGB. It comes complete with many new and refurbished parts. I cleaned it with an orbital sander for the smoother areas and a wire brush in an electric drill for the less accessible parts. I have a copy of the MGA / MBG Owners Workshop Manual (Autobooks 1975). I've copied the pages that cover the rear axle, suspension, brakes and steering. These pages are in transparent wallets that can be wiped clean or replaced.

The original backing plate for the drum brakes was rusty and muddy. The wheel hubs will not be needed, as the Hawk 289 kit includes new ones.
Click to enlarge picture. With the help of an electric sander and the wire brush in the drill, the back axle is getting to look cleaner.
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With the sander, it is possible to bring the axle right back to the bare metal. This is not necessary!
Click to enlarge picture. The brake drum and back plate after cleaning. This is where the wire brush was really useful, getting into all the corners.
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After cleaning, use Hammerite Smooth to paint the axle parts. The wheel hub and the back plate were painted black.
Click to enlarge picture. I chose to use a brush for the axle, and green as I couldn't find black on the shelf.
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The original wheel mountings proved useful spacers for supporting the leaf springs prior to assembly.
Click to enlarge picture. A view under the car shows the four axle stands that are supporting it until suspension parts are complete.
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The leaf springs and the (blue) damper arm are now in place, prior to fixing the axle assembly.
Click to enlarge picture. Rear axle and damper now in place. The restraining strap can only be attached when the car is lowered on its wheels.
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That's where the third spring goes - it's for the handbrake cable.
Click to enlarge picture. Brake shoes assembled. Note the position of the three springs. Two are located behind the brake shoes, and the handbrake cable spring is in front of the shoes.
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Hubs for wire wheels (of course!) now fitted. Note the serrated nut that fits in the centre. This needs a split pin to stop it rotating and possibly coming off.
Click to enlarge picture. Another view of the rear wheel hub, showing the small clearances. The springs must be fitted in the right places, the handbrake one outside the shoes, the others inside.
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click here for front suspension and steering