1994 4x4 Axle shaft Problem

[94Guy]

Hello everyone! I bought a 1994 Ford Ranger XL 2.3L manual over Easter and I'm trying to get everything to work. The one major issue is the 4x4. The switch was not working so I bypassed it by turning the T-case rod to 4hi and putting the shift motor back on. It works but for some reason the passanger axle can be push back out of the manul hub. Like I can push it almost to where it goes back into the knuckle. It still grabs on the locker but barley. There no broken parts on the axle and I can hear the snap ring holding it In the diff but I'm wonding what keeps the axle in the hub or what prevents it from walking backwards toward the diff?

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

Bookmark this page: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/index.shtml

Then check the Axles, Gears, Hubs & Lockers section

For Dana 28 / 35 TTB (And Hybrid) (1983-1997)

A 1994 Ranger 4x4 could have either a dana 28 or dana 35
ID which one you have

 

[94Guy]

Dana 35

 

[RonD]

There should be a c-clip on the axle inside the locking hub cover that holds the axle out

Seen in this auto to manual hub conversion: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/howto_hubswap.shtml

There are two axle shafts(really 4, lol) on the passenger side, a snap ring may be missing where the axles meet allowing the movement, there would be some play but reads like more than usual

Diagram here shows the 2 axles(75 and 68), page 2: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/pdf_documents/Dana_Ford_35.pdf

 

[94Guy]

Okay great! This is what I needed! that C Clip is gone that's why is keeps walking out. I have a few more questions.
1. I also can't get the inner bearing out of the rotor. Does it need to be pressed?
2. It seems that there is a lot of rust on the spindle. It has a lot of pitting. I looked around and it seems its really hard to find a new spindle for this gen of ranger. If anyone has some part # or places I could look?

 

[RonD]

Both inner and outer bearing races can be removed, no press is needed to remove or install

Never looked for a spindle for my 1994 but they would be expensive, if available
Should be some numbers in above diagram link