2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission 99 rear axle tube threads

[jkalchik]

Okay, it hasn't been a pleasant couple of days. I've been smelling gear lube around the truck, yet it wasn't spotting the ground. Yesterday, I discovered that the inside of the left rear tire was covered in gear lube. Definitely not brake fluid. Nuts, gotta replace the wheel seal.



That axle nut came out VERY hard. And I figured out why. Looks like someone in the past had moved the locknut without removing the keeper first, and had damaged a couple of threads on the nut. Which, when I took it all the way off, proceeded to damage the threads on the tube.



I've got a new locknut and keeper on the way, so that's covered. Yes, I did remember to finish the seal job.



Now, to the meat of the matter. It looks like an 18tpi thread on the tube, and I'm going to go find a thread chaser file tomorrow (like http://generaltools.com/product.asp?action=prdupc&prid=119&sectionid=3) Does anybody know off the top of their head exactly what the full specs are the tube threads? I have no problem buying a full tap if I can get the right one. If I can get the nut gracefully down to the good threads, I think I'm in pretty good shape.



Secondly, any suggestions on other possible repairs? I'd rather not have to replace the tube, or entire assembly.

 

[Joe Mc]

I think you've got it covered as far as how to do the repair. Sorry I don't know the thread size. How about one of those gauges they have in a tap & die set to be sure of the tpi count? Then, if you can find the right size die or at least if you are unsure get the closest 3 and return which ever ones you don't need. Don't forget to post back when you get the correct size - hoepfully no one else will have to need one - but you know what they say . . .

 

[rumblefish]

A guy I work with has done this same thing to a dana 60. He went to napa and got a thread file to clean the threads out. I used this same file on the spindle of a dana 44 front axle and it worked great. Just take your time and you shouldn't have any problems.

 

[jkalchik]

As near as I can tell, that's a 2" thread, 18 tpi. MSC sells a thread chaser die in that size..... $94. 27! Doggone it, it might just be worth it. Time to keep looking, methinks.

 

[Joe Mc]

As near as I can tell, that's a 2" thread, 18 tpi. MSC sells a thread chaser die in that size..... $94. 27! Doggone it, it might just be worth it. Time to keep looking, methinks.

Not sure how big they go but some of the parts houses loan tools - or if you are gentle you could buy/borrow it. "Ah, was the wrong size and decided to get it done at a shop instead. "

 

[jkalchik]

<grin> Joe, I live out in the sticks, and yes, the local parts shop does have a pretty well stocked loaner tool crib.



Personally, I've never seen a die for a 2" diameter except for a pipe threader.



I did score the thread chasers I mentioned up top. Not a bad purchase, more use for those than I probably realize.



Edit: I should also point out that the guys behind the counter do pretty well by me. I have no problem buying or renting the tools I need.

 

[jkalchik]

Well, after just a few minutes of work with the thread chaser, the new nut threaded down pretty darned nice. I had a pretty good idea of where the good threads started, and there was very little difference when the nut crossed over. Torqued down to 140 ft. /lbs. and didn't feel spongy at all.



Here's hoping I dodged a bullet.

 

[Joe Mc]

Good Deal - Gald to hear you've got good folks to deal with out there in the sticks.



Mean people stink!!!

 

[NHays]

Isn't one side of the axle left hand and the other is right hand threaded. just wondering.

 

[jkalchik]

Beats me. Driver's side is standard, righty tighty, lefty loosey.



I checked the hub tonight. It's running just a shade warmer than the passenger side. I may pull the axle out of the passenger side and reset the bearings. I'm also going to drain and refill both differentials.