1st Gen Rear Axle Assembly Questions

[tom_sprecher]

Definitely some freshman questions, but I don't like making mistakes and doing things twice.

What is the best way to put the axle bearing and retainer back on?
Do you use the press or heat it up (retainer only) and use a flanged pipe to beat it on?
To you put a small tack weld on the retainer and axle, axle only or leave as is?
What gasket goop (industry term) do you use to seal the diff housing?

Any other words of advice will be, as always, greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

[joeracerx95]

This is the sealer I've used. I think it is what most people use:

http://www.howellautomotive.com/index.asp?...WPROD&ProdID=37 (http://www.howellautomotive.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=37)

I take my axle to a machine shop. They press on the retainer, no welding is done. I've never asked how they get the old one off.

-chuck-

[johnny yanez]

good advice: dont ask, ,, it will scare you,, a big press, heat the bearing ect ect,, good job for a machine shop,,,

[tom_sprecher]

I got the old ones off with a big press and heat, not too scary, but installation using the same method would fry the bearing seals.

Man, when those retainers let loose it was like a firecracker going off and gave my wrist a slight sprain. I'll use a longer handle on the bottle jack next time.

Anybody else?

Thanks,

[dickita15]

I have been able to press a new one on with my cheap press, no heat. I cut the old one off like the manual says.