Axle shaft install question

[Tiko433]

I replaced bearings on both shafts, I used RTV on brake backing plate to axle housing and the plate that holds the axle to the housing , I put a little RTV on that also. I noticed the plate has a little opening in the bottom. Is this to let the oil out if the seal or bearing fails ? I was carful not to block it . It also looks like a place to let water in. Could I put some grease behind the plate ? There is nothing between it and the bearing.
Maybe I'm over thinking it ....
It's a 9 in

 

[Viperwolf1]

I think it's purpose is to let any oil drain out if the bearing seals go out. Without the drain oil would run to the axle flange and get flung inside the drum.

 

[Tiko433]

That's what I was thinking . I guess any grease would not last any way

 

[chrisd0729]

I always wonder what the people did wrong when the entire wheel, tire and axle fly out of the housing while driving and they're left leaning on 3 tires. Working on my back axle today, I can't help but wonder how that backing plate alone holds the entire axle in place and it doesn't fly out when taking a turn at speed. The plate doesnt seem that thick or strong.

 

[blubuckaroo]

I always wonder what the people did wrong when the entire wheel, tire and axle fly out of the housing while driving and they're left leaning on 3 tires. Working on my back axle today, I can't help but wonder how that backing plate alone holds the entire axle in place and it doesn't fly out when taking a turn at speed. The plate doesnt seem that thick or strzing.

If that bothers you, you should see what holds in a GM axle. It's just a small "C" clip.

 

[B RON CO]

Hi, four bolts and plate bolted through the backing plate onto the axle housing hold the axle in place. The bolts are special with unique heads. There is no need for any sealer. Good luck

 

[blubuckaroo]

Hi, four bolts and plate bolted through the backing plate onto the axle housing hold the axle in place. The bolts are special with unique heads. There is no need for any sealer. Good luck

I agree.
Sealer here will only cause problems.

 

[CopperRanger]

I always wonder what the people did wrong when the entire wheel, tire and axle fly out of the housing while driving and they're left leaning on 3 tires. Working on my back axle today, I can't help but wonder how that backing plate alone holds the entire axle in place and it doesn't fly out when taking a turn at speed. The plate doesnt seem that thick or strong.

I think when you see that the bearing retainer has failed and the axle shaft pulls out leaving the bearing inside the housing.