Question on Outer Axle Play Dana 44

[T-7ToNewOldB]

As part of installing drop radius arm brackets we also replaced axle seals on the Dana 44. Once reassembled with the hub cap off you can move the outer axle up and down a little. Not a lot but a noticeable amount. I would think that the inner and outter bearings would lock this in place and not allow it to move up/down or side to side. Thoughts?

Is this normal and if not cause?

Hugh

 

[Broncobowsher]

The outer axle is supported in 2 locations. The spindle bearings and the lockout itself. Considering the number of parts in the lockout and the clearances they need in order to move in and out I would expect a little play there. Which may translate into a little play at the axle U-joint.

The trouble it there is a pretty wide definition of a little play.

But at least you now know the 2 areas to look at and decide if your little play is a little too much, or just clearances for parts to work.

Unless you are referring to slop in the U-joint. In which case it is wore out. U-joints are smooth and slop free when good.

 

[T-7ToNewOldB]

The movement is on the outer axle accessing from where the cover to the locking hub is removed. Seems like when it is unlocked right now it is bumping into the snap ring when rotating. Snap rings seems set properly in the groove but not sure. Will keep working.

 

[T-7ToNewOldB]

Looks like the outer geared ring (don’t know the right name) may have been put back in reversed. Doesn’t hit the snap ring the other way. Exploded diagram didn’t make it clear, to me, which way it goes in.

 

[DirtDonk]

When the outer hub locking mechanism is removed you can move the tip of the axle shaft up and down far enough to literally contact the spindle walls in any direction. This is normal.
As said, the short axle shaft is supported by the inner spindle bearing and the outer lockout or slug (without locking hubs) but once you remove the outer support, that puppy is free to roam.

Packing the spindle full of grease serves to keep moisture out, but it also stiffens up the support of the shaft so you can't move it around much anymore. Without any extra grease in the spindle though, nothing is holding it.

Are you using factory lockouts, or aftermarket such as Warn or the like?

Paul