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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Engine/Drivetrain => Topic started by: cwest on August 31, 2012, 11:58:36 am

Title: Play in the DS axle after a U-joint replacement
Post by: cwest on August 31, 2012, 11:58:36 am

I just changed out a DS front axle U-joint on an 86' K20.  I'm 90% sure I replaced all of the spacers and washers.  After all said n done I noticed about an 1/8" play with the axle in the axle shaft.  I test drove it with the hubs locked in and noticed a slight vib starting around 40MPH and some advantageous noises when making sharp left turns.  From what I can find around Google, this seems to be normal since the axle is long on the DS and is a partial floater.  Just thought I'd make sure.  Thanks for any input.   

Title: Re: Play in the DS axle after a U-joint replacement
Post by: Blazin on August 31, 2012, 10:20:02 pm

1/8" is about normal. But you shouldn't be getting noises.

Title: Re: Play in the DS axle after a U-joint replacement
Post by: Sartobuilt on August 31, 2012, 10:54:20 pm

If you put the washers and spacers in, there will be some play. The snapring on the outer axle (holds inner hub gear) pulls the shaft where it should be.