known as dead axles, are mounted to the frame of the
bearing surfaces. Never strike the end of an axle shaft
chassis and remain stationary. This type of axle may
to loosen it, as this may damage the bearings or
run the entire width of the vehicle or may be only a
differential.
short axle mounted to the side of the frame or chassis.
Most all of your axle work will result from
Some nondriving axles will have wheels mounted
scheduled maintenance requiring the removal,
directly on the end of the axle, such as the rear wheels
cleaning, and repacking of wheel bearings, as shown
of a trailer. Others, such as the front wheels of a
in figure 2-3. It is very important to properly pack
trailer, will have the wheels mounted on nonsteering
wheel bearings because the grease must be forced
knuckles, which, in turn, are mounted on the ends of
the axle.
between the rollers. If the grease is only smeared on
the outside of the bearing, the bearing may overheat
Axles require very little maintenance. However,
and destroy itself. Also, ensure that the bearings are
nondriving axles may require straightening or
completely dry before they are packed with
replacement after accidents or rough handling.
W h e n eve r a ve h i c l e h a s a b e n t o r d a m a g e d
nondriving axle, the appropriate technical manual
bearings to rust.
must be consulted for the repair limits and
procedures. If trouble develops with a driving axle,
WARNING
the only solution is to replace it. Normally, the only
Never spin a bearing by blowing compressed air
trouble encountered with driving axles results from
across it. This may damage the bearing by causing
defective wheel bearings or a complete break of the
it to seize up or fly apart, injuring the person
axle.
holding the bearing.
Driving axles are encased in a housing; therefore,
they are isolated from the outside elements.
Replacement of a driving axle requires removal of
Q2-3. What are the two types of axles used on SE?
several parts from the axle housing. For semi-floating
or full-floating axles, only the axle is unbolted, and it
1.
Moving and stationary
can be removed without removing the wheel
2.
Internal and external
assembly. As the parts are removed, you must take
3.
Driving and nondriving
4.
Ridged and flexible
care not to further damage seals, threads, splines, or
A.
B.
ASf02003
Figure 2-3.--Packing wheel bearings.
2-3