Rear Bearings

[bhunter0830]

So, I have a rear bearing going back on the passenger rear. Do I need to replace the Axle's with the Bearings and Seals?

[35th-ANV-SS]

I would just pull it and inspect it for any marks or gauging. It will depend on how bad the bearing was worn whether or not the axle got damaged. I would definitely put a new axle seal in though. Most likely the seal will be damaged when you pull the axle and need to be replaced anyway. They are relatively cheap. I would also suggest using RTV on it to ensure it doesn't leak gear lube after install.

[bhunter0830]

Found an axle, bearing and seal package. Might as well just do it all the same time if i'm going to have them out.

[JayTA98]

if the race area of the axle is smooth you don't need to replace the axle. Here is a pic of my bad axle.

[2002ssslp]

if the race area of the axle is smooth you don't need to replace the axle. Here is a pic of mine bad axle.

That one is cooked.

[cammed goat]

I agree. If the axle isn't gouged, then just the bearing and seal should suffice.

[bhunter0830]

I can take the wheel and shake it. I am pretty sure the axle will be toast when I pull them out. But we'll see when it warms back up enough for me not to freeze my ass off in the garage.

[pajeff02]

They offer "repair bearings" that ride in a different area of the axle. Never looked into them for our cars, but it is a cheaper option than replacing an axle. Link is to more info: Automotive Cylindrical Axle Repair Bearings

[35th-ANV-SS]

Timken is a pretty great company. They supply axle bearings to the rail industry. I know one of the Regional Sales Manager's there.

[pajeff02]

Agree. If I had to replace a bearing, that is the manufacturer I would try to go with.

[bhunter0830]

Timken is what I have ordered. Does anyone have a 101 on replacing the bearings?

[pajeff02]

You have to drop the rear cover and pull the axle c-clip to remove the axle.

[pajeff02]

Looks like this:

[SMWS6TA]

If you need a new axle let me know I have 2 spares......plus a carrier, not sure of the gear ratio but it still is serviceable.

[bhunter0830]

Looking for confirmation that the axles are 28 spline. Also, after looking at the RPO codes I have a 2.73 gear... Seriously, anyone have any suggestions on other gears?

[pajeff02]

28 spline sounds correct. I assume that is an auto trans with those gears -- 3.73's work great in our car.

[bhunter0830]

Do I need to change the carrier if it go to a 3.73?

[pajeff02]

I assume you either have to change the carrier or utilize a ring gear spacer -- preference to the former over the latter.

[bhunter0830]

Back to the bearing. Is there anything special needed to remove the bearing from the axle tube? I think I'll just abuse whats left of the rear end I have and upgrade once I've destroyed it.

[FinZ28]

2.73 gears had a series 2 carrier. You'll need to go up to a series 3 carrier, I believe.