Rear axle leak

[73Bronc]

I continue to have a leak in my right rear axle. Does anyone know the size or product numbers for the seal and bearing? I have a feeling that my seal may be too small. I have a stock, 9" rear end.

Thanks,
Trey

[johnpaulgolf]

Big bearing or Med Bearing maybe small bearing??? cratchhe:


This was good to help me idnetify my axle ... :xyxthumbs:

http://www.wildhorses4x4.com/category/rear_axle

[broncomatt]

Most auto parts stores can match up the right parts using the gvw. If this isnt correct, look for a tag bolted to the center section. It may identify the axle.
There are 3 sizes depending on the year and gvw. Hope this helps.
Broncomatt

[chuzie]

I'd go with the tag myself. YOu never know who has swapped what on these rigs.

[Timstrk]

To correct, there are only 2 sizes. Large bearing and small bearing. There are 3 weight ratings. Small bearing medium duty, large bearing medium (10" drums) and heavy duty (11" drums). The small bearing housing is the same diameter as the axle tube, the large bearing flares out like a bell. Very obvious difference.

Tim

[744x4]

BTW check the vent tube (that bolts up the rear brake lines) as if air cant get out of it. it builds up pressure and the axle starts leaking at the bearing as it is the lowest point under pressure.I remove the fitting and run a 31-27 bit down the hole and clean out the shavings.Every leak I have had was caused by a clogged vent.

[73Bronc]

Thanks for all the advice everyone. I pulled the driver side axle that's not leaking just to compare the bearing and seal. They look the same although the seal on the leaking axle is a bit crooked. I took the axles to the machine shop last week and the machinist suggested that the seal inside the axle housing is probably the culprit.

Before I go any further I will try the vent tube suggestion. But just in case that doesn't solve the problem, has anyone ever removed this hard rubber seal that's just inside the housing?

[chuzie]

Sure. The old ones usually need some encouragement. They will usually collapse if you grab them correctly. If you use that claw-like seal puller be extra careful not to damage the housing in the process.

If it is crooked I am sure that is the reason for the leak since the rubber seems to be intact in the picture.

Make sure you clean the housing up before you install the new seal.

[Barnes 4wd]

Sure. The old ones usually need some encouragement. They will usually collapse if you grab them correctly. If you use that claw-like seal puller be extra careful not to damage the housing in the process.

If it is crooked I am sure that is the reason for the leak since the rubber seems to be intact in the picture.

Make sure you clean the housing up before you install the new seal.

Every thing above is correct. The only thing that I would add is that you mentioned the axle vent. If your axle vent is not working correctly (ie Plugged) then your axle is becoming pressurized and even after replacing the seal the first time you drive it could push gear oil out again. :biggthumpup: