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rear axle worn out
Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 11:58 am
by Bantam
Hi Guys, HELP! I have a 1955 series2 minor and the rear axle is noisy, along with a lot of play in the half shafts?
Can anyone advise me please wether it's possible to refurbish it? Or can I fit a newer later type axle? Or is it possible to fit a different make of axle i.e: Ford Escort?
What would be my best plan please?
Thanks
Bob
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 12:01 pm
by bmcecosse
Yes - all are possible. First check - is there any oil in it?? And - if you pull the shafts - is there then noticeable play in the rear hub bearings??
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2012 12:19 pm
by rayofleamington
When you say 'a lot of play' in the halfshafts. I presume you mean rotary? If so, how much?
If it's axial or cross axial play, then the hub bearing is shot.
A worn diff is the next likely cause of noise - and will give increased rotary play in the halfshafts. Finding a second hand diff or complete axle shouldn't be too hard if needed.
And as Roy suggested - OIL!
If the axle is running dry it can be very noisy.
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 8:36 am
by Bantam
Thanks so far guys.
The play is rotary play so i guess the diff is worn and/or possibly the ends of the half shaft. If I look for a second hand axle to rebuild i assume it has to be an early type for series 2 car, or can i fit a later one but still retain the original hydraulic dampers?
Thanks again for your input.
Incidentally 'RayofLeamington' I am based in Banbury.
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 8:37 am
by Bantam
Thanks so far guys.
The play is rotary play so i guess the diff is worn and/or possibly the ends of the half shaft. If I look for a second hand axle to rebuild i assume it has to be an early type for series 2 car, or can i fit a later one but still retain the original hydraulic dampers?
Thanks again for your input.
Incidentally 'RayofLeamington' I am based in Banbury.
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 10:28 am
by mike.perry
A '55 Series II should have the same design rear axle as the later Minors, only the diff ratio is different
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 12:40 pm
by rayofleamington
Incidentally 'RayofLeamington' I am based in Banbury.
I work in Gaydon, so half way to your doorstep...
You mention wear in the halfshaft ends - at wost this could add maybe a degree but with a very badly worn diff you would be looking at maybe +/-15 degrees backlash!
Re: rear axle worn out
Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2012 1:33 pm
by bmcecosse
There's always plenty of rotary 'free play' at the axle ends - so don't worry too much about that. Change the oil! EP 90.