Rear axle maintenance

[sahls01gmc]

When I replaced the rear brakes recently, I noticed the axle seal on the passenger side had a slight amount of grease/fluid coming out of it. What would you recommend that needs to be replaced? Just the axle seal, or bearing as well? I figure I would do both sides.

 

I've not had any experience messing with the drum parking brake before. Is this a job that I should just take to a shop and have them do? Any idea on a cost of that?

 

I'm good with my hands, and have a great set of tools. But I also am coming to the age that some jobs are still better off left for the professionals.

 

 

 

Thanks for any advice!

[Black02Silverado]

It isn't that hard. Not sure of your application but this should be close in this Youtube video.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMxfb9X3ywE

[sahls01gmc]

Thanks for the video! I have the semi-float axle, but I'm wondering how much different that would be. Looks like I don't have to take the parking brake off, so that makes me feel better.

 

Would this also be a good time to change the diff fluid?

[ed c]

While we're on the subject of rear axle maintenance, Can anyone tell me where to find the specs for a 2008 Chev Tahoe 10 bolt 8.625 ring gear rear differential ? Im putting new bearings in this weekend and could really use the info for tourque specs as well as rotational torque, backlash etc.

[sdeeter19555]

Thanks for the video! I have the semi-float axle, but I'm wondering how much different that would be. Looks like I don't have to take the parking brake off, so that makes me feel better.

 

Would this also be a good time to change the diff fluid?

A semi float will require pulling the differential cover, and removing the "c" clips holding the axle in place. Once the clips are removed, the axle shafts pull out, inspect the area the axle rides on the bearing, and if not scored, probably just need a new seal.

 

Semifloat axles are a little more involved than a fullfloat.

 

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[sdeeter19555]

And while you are that deep, I would replace both seals (both sides).

 

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[gmtech4]

While we're on the subject of rear axle maintenance, Can anyone tell me where to find the specs for a 2008 Chev Tahoe 10 bolt 8.625 ring gear rear differential ? Im putting new bearings in this weekend and could really use the info for tourque specs as well as rotational torque, backlash etc.

Alldata.com $27/yr, no brainer