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1935 VA550 rear brake/spindle assembly

Posted: Sun Jun 21, 2026 8:31 pm
by Bob.Lock
Hi, I am very new to the world of Ariel having just bought my first pre-war bike.
I've had new tyres fitted, but have come unstuck whilst reassembling the rear wheel.
I do not know which nut goes where on the brake side of the wheel.
I have attached a pic showing the line up of nuts and washers. Please can someone confirm this is correct and that the shoulder is on the correct side of each nut?
AND, the two nuts which go either side of the brake plate are different thicknesses, 1/4" and 5/16". My guess is that the thicker one goes next to the bearing. Is this correct?
Thanks for your help.

Re: 1935 VA550 rear brake/spindle assembly

Posted: Mon Jun 22, 2026 3:49 pm
by paul.jameson
Hello Bob and welcome to the world of Ariels.

The timing of your question would be hard to improve upon if you were looking for an answer from me. I have spent this morning and early part of this afternoon assembling the bearings and spindle into the rear hub of my 1934 Ariel OHC Four which uses the identical hub and frame to yours. So I can confirm that you have the nuts in the right places and the right way round.