1995, s10 Blazer, 4x4, 296K mi

Hi, I recently (while replacing the hub/bearings) noticed that my left (driver) side half shaft moves around where it exits the front differential. I was manually rotating the wheel back and forth while jacked up and noticed the lateral (radial) movement. I assume there should NOT be any play in that direction at that point.... ?????

Anyone knowledgeable in this area ?

Manfred

 

Heeelllooo ? - Any one ? I could really use some advice on this... Thanks

 

Directly behind the seal, (axle shaft must be removed) there is a bearing, probably worn out.

 

Are you saying that this bearing can be replaced without removing the Diff from the vehicle ? If so could you provide a bit more detail as to the procedure?

Thanks

 

There are several bearings & bushings in the front drive axle assembly that should be checked. The differential does not need to be removed to replace the outer bushing. The halfshaft does need to be removed. In the drawing below: The seal, (#76) is installed into the cover, (#74). The cover must be removed to replace the bushing, (#56).





It does require a special puller/installer to service the bushing. Make sure you lubricate the sealing surface of the seal, the bushing, and the halfshaft, before installing the halfshaft.

 

In one reply you say its a bearing probably worn out...
Then you write about a bushing...

??????

 

Bushings and bearings are similar in function. Technically it's a bushing that helps stabilize the inner CV joint at the differential. There are also bearings in the differential, both roller and ball style. Sorry for the confusion.

 

Hi - thank you attempting to clarify, however I think something is wrong...

The part you refer to as needing replacement (#56) is not in the drive train. It is a mounting bush to the frame of the vehicle. I think (#52) may be the problem - but it appears to be internal to the case.

Thoughts ?

 

Lol, now that I study it in the shop manual, (bigger, clearer image) I think you're right, #56 is a mounting bushing. #52 is without a doubt, a bearing, probably the one that's causing the problem. On the passenger side, the axle tube needs to be removed, (it appears only to make the job easier). There's no mention of the driver side, but the seal cover has to come off. A slide hammer type puller is used to remove the bearing, and there should be plenty of room to get it in there on the driver side. Maybe someone will chime in.