2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission How to repack the bearings on the rear axle?

[ILIANBG]

Hi to all. I am thinking of repacking the rear bearings on my truck, but I'm not sure how it is supposed to be done.

If anyone has done it and remembers, please, let me know.

I really appreciate it.

Ilian

 

[BDaugherty]

The rear axle bearings are lubed by the oil in the differential. I would just drain and refill the differential.

 

[BILLVO]

Not to be a smatypants but do you mean replace the bearings? You do not repack rear axle wheel bearings, they are oil bath and are lubed by the transfer of differential oil if the level is correct.

 

[ILIANBG]

Not replacing, just to keep'em properly lubricated.
Ok, I understand now. They ale lubed by the diff. fluid.
I thought I was supposed to repack the bearings with grease. I think I saw at Geno's a part, used for repacking bearings. I learned something new today.
Thank you, guys.

 

[SSolderitch]

before sealed bearings were used, we had tapered roller bearings, they were used on front axles, cars & 2x4 PU & rears of a FWD cars. they would mount on a spindle (non- rotating shaft). the spindle would be threaded, so you could preset the pressure on the bearings then lock the nut. That is sometimes done with a cotter pin in a cross drilled hole. Even dodge had a grease fitting to lube them right on the truck such as a 79, 4x4 front axle.



The only thing you need to worry about on your rear axle is 1: good lube and proper level. Front axle is sealed bearings-no lube required.

2: however if you change rear axle brake shoes (I know you are lucky to have discs), then you need special socket to remove the lock retainer & nut to remove the drum and learn how to set the preload on reassembly.



If you need to replace a bearing, the inner or outer race must also be replaced (it is the other half of the bearing). the race is held in place with a press fit, so more special tools and skill required.

 

[n7gxz]

before sealed bearings were used, we had tapered roller bearings, they were used on front axles, cars & 2x4 PU & rears of a FWD cars. they would mount on a spindle (non- rotating shaft). the spindle would be threaded, so you could preset the pressure on the bearings then lock the nut. That is sometimes done with a cotter pin in a cross drilled hole. Even dodge had a grease fitting to lube them right on the truck such as a 79, 4x4 front axle.



The only thing you need to worry about on your rear axle is 1: good lube and proper level. Front axle is sealed bearings-no lube required.

2: however if you change rear axle brake shoes (I know you are lucky to have discs), then you need special socket to remove the lock retainer & nut to remove the drum and learn how to set the preload on reassembly.



If you need to replace a bearing, the inner or outer race must also be replaced (it is the other half of the bearing). the race is held in place with a press fit, so more special tools and skill required.

Have you checked taking your rear drums off? On my truck I can take the drums off without having to remove the rear hubs or axle shafts.



Kevin

 

[SSolderitch]

no, not on the 2001, the dealer installed the shoes, because it was a suprise to me at inspection time.

but I did my 85 a few times... . that was a hub/drum assy using the wheel studs to hold them together. the front rotors were also the same. Seperate replacable bearings and and easy conversion to add lock out hubs, those were the good old days.

But I like my 2001 much better...

 

[Missouri Mule]

Grease and synthetic lube don't mix.