Axle End Play

[boom boom]

I was changing brake pads and noticed what seems like excessive axle endplay. I can move the axle laterally almost 1/4" and there is no radial movement. Does this mean that the clutch pack is worn out? There is some movement with c-clips, but this seems excessive. The traction-lok is not showing signs of slip and will still spin both tires from a stop. Time to rebuild the differential or shim the clips?

[03Merc]

When You remove the brake caliper on the rear the axle should have play in and out. Pulling it all the way out towards You locks it in the diff. How many miles on the rear end? Was it ever opened b4? Any gear swap?


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[boom boom]

112K, original gears, was opened at some point by Ford. I had a buddy print the Oasis report for me but it's at the office. Whoever was in there forgot to put the parking brake cable bracket back on.

[FW_Linc/Merc]

Check out this thread.

https://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=107576

[boom boom]

Thanks FW, but that's not the end play I am working with. Mine is lateral, as in the axle shaft pulls out of the housing. Your video shows what I am more familiar calling backlash.

[jaywish]

generally what you have to watch for is up and down and side to side. that usually indicates bad bearing and or axle. A small amount of in and out is normal.

[Spectragod]

And this is only a issue if your using a fixed caliper such as a Wilwood kit, you can manufacture c clips to eliminate the end play, you’ll need a CNC to manufacture them then send them out for heat treat.


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[boom boom]

Thanks Guys, I'll chalk it up to normal tolerances.

[jaywish]

Why is this a problem with a fixed caliper?

[boom boom]

Why is this a problem with a fixed caliper?


https://nasaspeed.news/tech/brakes/pad-knock-back-what-it-is-how-it-happens-and-what-to-do-about-it/