Small bearing axle movement

[flaconinja]

So I was worried about my rear axle having some in and out play(maybe an eighth of an inch). It doesn't make any sounds and the play is limited to in and out, no play up and down.

What would cause it to do that?

I was thinking of just pulling it and replaceing the bearing and seals but wanted to have an idea of what was going on before i did that.

A couple of my buddys said just to drive it and it'd be fine but i'm not so sure about that.

Thanks

 

[Viperwolf1]

The retainer plate under the axle flange sets the endplay. Make sure it's tight.

 

[73stallion]

retainer plate could be bent too, seen that before.

 

[bteutsch]

I don't know I think I would check it pretty close.. I stepped hard on my brakes one night and my axle came completely out.. And the other side walked out another time until it didn't engage the rear differential any more that time I drove home in hi 4 wheel..

 

[flaconinja]

did you do anything in particular to keep it from happening again???

 

[broncnaz]

1/8th in is about normal the retainer plate on sealed bearing type axles only holds the axle/bearing in it doesnt really set endplay but can affect it as the retainer plates can wear over time still it doesnt sound to bad. Most of the ford 9in with sealed bearings I've worked on had some play even with all new bearings and retainer plates.