2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Need speedi-sleeve tips

[GAmes]

I'm tired of the front hubs' seals leaking grease because the seals have worn grooves in the spindles. I bought two "Redi-sleeves" from the local Timken dealer, which from what I can tell, are just repackaged speedi-sleeves. The instructions call for filling the grooves with "powdered metal type epoxy filler". I don't have any, and don't remember ever seeing any, so will marine-tex epoxy do the job? I know a guy who patched a hole in an engine with it. Second, it calls for applying non-hardening sealant on the inside of the sleeve prior to installation. Would RTV qualify? I have installed several wear sleeves on the crankshaft, but these are a little different.

 

[kcv67]

Use rtv the black stuff seems to work the best. Apply it to the inside of the sleeve and then on the spindle. Install sleeve with the installation cup and wipe off the extra rtv and you are good to go. Be careful when starting the sleeve on to keep it straight when it is started straight drive it home.



Casey

 

[GAmes]

Thanks. The included installation cup won't work since it is only about an inch deep. I found a PVC coupling that should work. I'll post a picture or two.

 

[B.G. Smith]

I think the JB Weld type stuff is like powdered metal in epoxy. bg

 

[GAmes]

I went with the black RTV.

This is what it looked like to start, and the PVC coupling I used to install the sleeve.

 

[GAmes]

This is what the sleeve looked like after pushing it on. There is an installation flange that can be removed if need be. I pulled it off then reversed the PVC to push the sleeve farther on.

 

[GAmes]

As you can see, the sleeve is wider than the seal surface. I cut the excess off with a Dremel cutting wheel, then used a file to smooth and bevel the edge. For anyone who might want to know, the Timken part # is 99218. Rather expensive, so be sitting down. Still way cheaper than a new spindle assy. It is possible that NAPA can supply one cheaper, I didn't check.

 

[mwilson]

RTV is what we use here under speedi-sleeves on big stuff. I don't the think that the powered metal is really needed as you just have to seal the grooves underneath. Packed grease is not bad, but axles running gear oil or synthetics will leak under the sleeve without something to seal it up.

The RTV will be fine.



How much too wide was the sleeve??? I can research my books tomorrow to see if a narrower version is available for future use.



I just priced the 99218 at around $31. 00 through Freightliner.



Mike.

 

[GAmes]

Something like a quarter inch or so had to be cut off. I hope there isn't a future need for me, but if a narrower edition exists that will help someone else. I paid more than $31 each for mine, didn't realize it until I got home since the bill was also for bearings, races and seals. Since they were special ordered I was stuck with them anyway. I'll get part of it back come tax time