2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Leaky Axle Tubes

[tgbol]

The axle tubes on my truck are leaking where they are pressed into the pumpkin and CAD. Does some one have a secret formula for sealing them up?

TIA

 

[EricBu12]

As a quick fix for the leak, you might try J-B Weld... . Just mix up a big batch and smear it around the joint like Caulk and that should work.....



Used that stuff to fix my A/C leak... . Still cold!

 

[jrobinson2]

Leaking axle tubes usually also come with alighnment problems and broken spot welds were the tubes are held into the CAD and differential housing... .



Most of the time it means the housing has taken a big hit and is bent the CAD is the weakest spot in the front axle housing, thats the first place they bend.



Jared

 

[tgbol]

jrobinson2

The axle got bent by an unscheduled off road trip. It was bent on the left side between the pumpkin and the knuckle. I was looking for cheap and dirty fix until i can afford a new housing.

 

[steveinaz]

Use a nickle rod and stick weld it. Empty the gear oil, reinstall the cover, use a vaccum pump for a a/c system to pull a vaccum through the vent, Clean the area to be welded with starting fluid while pulling a vaccum. Weld the axle tube to the center section while pulling a vaccum with the nickle rod.

This works every time, but I have never seen a 60 do this. I usually have to do this to chibby 10/12 bolts. Realignment could be a factor if it is excessive.

SteveinAZ

 

[tgbol]

Steveinaz

thanx for the tip. I never thought abought creating a vacuum in the housing. I was wondering how I was going to clean the areas.

The axle got bent when the entire weight of a loaded truck crashed down on the left front wheel. The axle bottomed out and it actually bent the tube where it hit the stop. I was 700 miles form home at the time, with a trailer that was not attached at the time of the accident. I adjusted the toe in and drove it home. Quite a learning experience for my 14 year old son. Nobody was hurt so I can say "no harm no foul"