Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Might be a silly question about the Dana 70

[Philsram]

I have a 1995 3/4 ton diesel 2wd with an auto transmision. Not too long ago I pulled and inspected the front wheel bearings before a long trip. I wanted to inspect the brakes also because I was towing a 10,000 lb 30' trailer on this trip. The front brakes and bearings were checked and I decieded to to go and in pull and inspect the back bearings. I followed the instructions in my service manual and removed the axle hub bolts and slid the axle out. At that point gear oil poured out of the axle shaft. Is that normal? My confusion is that the manual tells me to inspect and re-pack the bearings with grease. What is normal With this rear end? Is the lubrication gear oil or grease with the Dana?



Thanks PW

 

[fox]

The d-70 is normal, what they are talking about with the re-pack is the front.

 

[SRehberg]

The manual states to repack the rear bearings when changed to insure they are lubricated until the oil works itself into the bearing surfaces. I don't know if you would do any damage just relying on the oil after a bearing change or not, but why chance it? Seems overkill I know, but that has been the procedure for a long time for these axles. I'm sure others have done it both ways, but for me, I'll grease them when it comes time.

 

[Tim1]

dana 70

PW, just lightly coat the bearings with grease, If you pack too tightly and oil can't get in there, you will have a problem, for sure. If you want to change that stake pin to a spicer system, check the first gen discontinued parts for my post on part numbers. Way better. Also, speedi sleeve that axle tube now and eliminate the groove that is gonna be there if you don't. Tim

 

[Josparkz]

Originally posted by SRehberg

The manual states to repack the rear bearings when changed to insure they are lubricated until the oil works itself into the bearing surfaces. I don't know if you would do any damage just relying on the oil after a bearing change or not, but why chance it? Seems overkill I know, but that has been the procedure for a long time for these axles. I'm sure others have done it both ways, but for me, I'll grease them when it comes time.

Many years ago I redid the bearings in a truck. The shop manual said nothing about greasing the bearings, that the gear oil would take care of it.

Okay.

A few weeks later i had a little problem out on the road. I pulled an axle out. Ever see a melted b ?

Looked like welding slag in there.

Expensive lesson: greaase the bearings.