48 Lin v12 Rear axle Question.?

[Cokekid]

While applying grease to the rear left  axle I was able to move the axle a little bit from side to side and up and down. I am guessing I have another big problem ahead of me 

 

Gerry

[Roy Rowe]

The axle end will float  in the axle  housing with the hub off. The hub tapper supports the axle  once the hub is fitted. I believe the axle and hub  tappers should be grease free, cleaned up and packed with chalk dust for dryer fit with a new key  for better grip and drive. Torque axle nut to 90 Lbs !! plus. 

[Cokekid]

Roy,

 

I was so happy to hear that I didn't inherit another problem. I check with the Service Chart and it shows both rear bearings are to be greased.

[Roy Rowe]

Gerry,
Yes as we know the rear wheel bearings have a grease nipple at the underside of the backing plate. The brake  hub has a outer sleeve  and the axle housing a   inner sleeve for the wheel bearing to run in.  Both these sleeves can wear especially  the axle housing sleeve, check the underneath of the axle housing sleeve for wear [pitting]  that"s where the load bearing weight is. Both these sleeves are replaceable. If you can lift the wheel up with a lever when fitted  then there is wear somewhere there. Unfortunately the Diff. has to be split to replace the axle sleeve, although some say it can be changed in place!!?  Happy Daze, Roy

Edited April 12, 2021 by Roy Rowe (see edit history)

[19tom40]

I would NOT use the grease nipple to grease the rear wheel bearings. This will try to force grease past the grease seal and the grease that does not make it past the seal, will end up on the brakes.

[Cokekid]

Tom,

 

I will be packing the bearings with heavy grease 

[19tom40]

The recommended grease is Sta-Lube SL3131 Heavy Duty Drum Brake Wheel Bearing Grease. This has been proven by many users in the Early Ford V-8 Club to protect the roller bearings in the rear wheels and is also good for the front wheel bearings. It is available on Amazon.