need some clarifications axle seal/bearing, wheel bearing, etc.

[Luvlegs]

I've pounded the search and found just enough to get myself into trouble soooo, here goes... (most of this is paraphrased from the posts I found)

I’m working on my rear drums (72 C10 ½ ton - if it matters) I don't have my manual with me at the moment (will when I get home) - need clarification - started brake job – it’s a bigger mess - now plan to change out axle seals, axle bearing, wheel cylinder, etc. I’m going to try to pick up the parts on the way home tonight, hence, the questions.

1) when the pinion shaft bolt is removed, so the axle can be pushed in to remove the C-clip, how do you "avoid letting the spider gear(?) move? Or is it even an issue?

2) I find parts places have the axle bearing and the wheel bearing... ???? If the rear wheel bolts onto the flange, with the hub in between, where is this wheel "bearing"? (If I didn’t see it listed for the rear, I’d of thought it was a front end part).

3) After the axle is out, use a puller to get the axle tube bearing out, pack and install new, pour a quantity of diff fluid in to fill up to lip of the new bearing so it'll be lubed from the get go (not enough to empty out of the open end at the diff cover).

4) Install axle, c-clip, then where is the "axle seal"? - is it the gasket that you can put rtv sealant on?

5) Wheel cylinders - unhook brake line from the back, then unbolt from the backing plate? Install new in reverse order, then bleed.

Any additional words of wisdom, “get these parts”, don’t forget ….., etc? I have my manuals at home but don’t want to have to go back out – if I have to, I can just get stuff tomorrow night…. Or the next… and or the next…

[Luvlegs]

nearing departure time TTT

[70GMCer]

I'm not an expert on this, but I'm pretty sure it doesn't make a difference if the spider gear moves. Just don't lose any spacers that come out where the spiders rest against.

The wheel bearing is inside the axle housing behind the axle seal. When you pull the seal out, the bearing will follow. reverse the process. Pay attention on how you remove the seal & bearing. You do not pack the axle bearing with grease, as it gets it's lubing from the fluid. Be careful when installing the axle seal. Tap lightly around the seal as it goes into the housing. Remember, make sure you put the bearing in first.

You got it right about installing the wheel cylinders.

[Luvlegs]

THANK YOU! I didn't think that bearing was supposed to get packed (that's why there's diff. fluid in there right) I think I'm ready - Thanks again.

[jerry moss]

if you're changing axle bearings, pack them with grease after you install them. they get lubed by gear oil that crawls down the axle shafts and it takes a while for oil to work it's way out that far. as long as you don't turn the carrier with the axles out, the spiders shouldn't fall out--if they do, you have some serious wear.

[Luvlegs]

gotcha - what is it that the actual carrier pin (held in by the bolt from the pas side) do that it has to be pulled to get the axles out?

[steelhorse]

It prevents the axels from coming in far enough for the c clips to fall out,hence removing it to pull them.Like stated above just dont turn the pinion gear or the other axel with one removed and the spyder gears shouldnt fall out.When installing the axel seals pack the back side with grease to prevent the spring from falling out when tapping it in.Use a board or flat piece of metal to tap in the seal,place it flush against the seal and tap on it instead of the seal,this will keep the seal from walking while going in.

[Luvlegs]

gotcha. Where about in Franklinton? I have a buddy that recently moved out there - near Mt Olive Church Road.

[steelhorse]

Where hwy96 and 56 cross

[Wrenchbender Ret]

I don't understand your signature. Why would anyone hit a cat with a ball peen hammer?

[Luvlegs]

read the next line (under it)